Snow Shuttle Transfer - Waimarino (National Park Village) to Whakapapa Ski Area the Skywaka Gondola and Happy Valley

Safe, reliable alpine transport from National Park Village and Waimarino directly to the snow.

With nearly 20 years of experience operating on the Whakapapa Ski Access Road in challenging alpine conditions, our team is trusted by thousands of visitors every winter season. Whether you are skiing, snowboarding, sightseeing, sledding at Happy Valley or visiting the Sky Waka Gondola, we make getting up the mountain easy and stress-free.

• Experienced alpine drivers with extensive local knowledge
• Avoid icy roads, chains, parking issues and congestion
• Local pickups available from accommodation within National Park Village and Waimarino
• Flexible return times throughout the day
• Family-friendly service
• Free date transfers if weather impacts your booking
• Operated by one of the longest-running shuttle providers in the region

Regular departures operate throughout the day from 8am at:

• Waimarino Park & Ride (National Park Train Station)
• Waimarino/National Park Village accommodation
• Whakapapa Village (on request only call to arrange)

Return Times

• Earlier times on request
• 1:45pm
• 3:00pm
• 4:00pm (415pm subject to ski lessons)

Additional return times may be available by arrangement.

Please note alpine conditions, weather and road restrictions can affect departure and return times. Safety always takes priority.

• Minimum passenger numbers may apply on some departures
• Whakapapa Village pickups are by prior arrangement only
• Group and family discounts may be available on selected services
• One-way bookings do not include return transport rights later in the day
• Ski and snowboard equipment by arrangement due to compliance with Transport Alpine Safety Code.

For passenger safety and compliance with alpine transport requirements, loose skis and snowboards cannot be carried inside vehicles due to sharp edges.

Please contact us before travel if bringing snow equipment. On selected days we may operate vehicles fitted with external ski racks.

Passengers arriving with undeclared equipment may be refused boarding if safe transport cannot be provided.

• Children under 3 years old may not be carried at the discreation of the driver.
• All passengers must be able to use the provided seat restraints
• Drivers reserve the right to refuse transport where safety concerns arise

1. Select passenger numbers
2. Choose pickup location and destination
3. Select one-way or return service
4. Choose departure and preferred return time

Preferred return times are prioritised for passengers booked on those departures. Earlier or later returns are subject to seat availability.

If your preferred return time is unavailable online, that departure is already full.

• Please be ready 10 minutes before departure
• Accommodation pickups may vary slightly from scheduled times
• Missed departures may require transfer to a later shuttle subject to availability
• No refunds are available for missed services
• Payment may remain pending until minimum operating numbers are confirmed

If weather or mountain conditions affect your plans, we offer free transfer of your booking to another available date.

For group bookings, special requests or ski equipment enquiries:

ruapehushuttle@gmail.com