Whakapapa Ski Area is preparing to open for the snow sports season, with the general manager expressing strong enthusiasm for what lies ahead.
The ski field began its sledding program and early snow activities on May 30. Full access for skiing and snowboarding is scheduled to start on Matariki weekend, June 21.
Steve “Youngman” Manunui, Whakapapa Ski Field’s general manager of operations, said he and his team are excited to welcome visitors.
“Everything is ready to roll and we are really excited,” Manunui said. “We’re probably more excited than we have been in the last four or five years — some of the forecasts look very promising.”
This year marks a new chapter for the ski area, now operated by Whakapapa Holdings Ltd (WHL). As a goodwill gesture, WHL supplied 10 new TT10 snow guns to the operators, adding to the existing 45.
Manunui explained that the extra snow guns improve reliability, especially during periods with limited natural snowfall.
“Even when we get some help from Mother Nature, these guns allow us to open runs earlier and make them wider, which creates a better experience for guests,” he said. “They also help us keep the slopes open into spring when natural snow starts to fade.”
In addition to snow guns, Whakapapa operates New Zealand’s only snow factory, which can produce snow regardless of weather conditions.
The ski area has also upgraded equipment, including a new PistenBully snow groomer. Staff numbers currently stand at around 120, with plans to increase to 300 during the winter school holidays.
“That’s an amazing position to be in — we had more than 1600 job applications this year,” Manunui added.
He expects a full and active season ahead.
“There’s been a bit of a stigma since Covid about our planning, but this year, we’re ready. We plan to have the whole mountain open,” he said. “Last year, snow conditions were the biggest factor, but this season, we’re set for a full run with all facilities available.”
Whakapapa’s calendar features a wide range of events and activities, catering to everyone from first-timers and families to experienced skiers and snowboarders.
Meanwhile, injury prevention remains a key focus. In 2024, ACC spent over $44 million supporting recovery from snow sports injuries nationwide, including 1,020 injuries in the Manawatū-Whanganui region alone, costing $7 million.
James Whitaker, an ACC injury prevention officer, urged visitors to prioritize safety.
“Skiing and snowboarding with friends and family is one of the best experiences in New Zealand,” Whitaker said. “We want everyone to enjoy the slopes safely so they can keep doing what they love. Injuries can have serious impacts on people’s lives and those around them.”
Manunui advised visitors to prepare before arriving at Whakapapa.
“Check our report page for the latest updates,” he said. “We’ve done extensive planning over summer and will have a full team on hand, including our safety services crew. They’re ready to welcome guests and help ensure a safe and enjoyable season on our maunga.”