From ski demos and social events to prestigious race competitions, Whakapapa's winter events calendar is packed with opportunities to get on the mountain and be part of the action.
Nordica & Blizzard Demo Day
14 - 16 August
Head to the top of the Sky Waka gondola and test the latest skis from Nordica and Blizzard. Chat with product experts, compare different models, and discover your next setup.
Subject to snow and weather conditions.
Women's Week
17 - 21 August
A five-day event designed for women who want to build confidence, improve their skills, and enjoy the mountain with a supportive community.
The week includes:
- On-snow skill development
- Coffee catch-ups
- Après at Knoll Ridge Chalet
- A mid-week dinner on the mountain
Bay of Plenty & Waikato Championships
21 August
A competitive race day featuring alpine athletes from across the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions.
Contingency date: 28 August
DJI Demo Day
22 August
Experience the mountain from a different perspective with the latest DJI camera technology. Trial new equipment, capture your Whakapapa adventure, and take home footage from your day on the snow. Spot prizes will also be up for grabs.
NIPS
30 August - 3 September
New Zealand's premier Primary and Intermediate Ski Championships, offering young racers a fun, safe, and supportive alpine racing experience.
Sunset Session with Corona
5 September
Make the most of late-season skiing and join us at Lorenz's Bar & Café as the sun sets. Enjoy Corona Happy Hour specials featuring Corona, Michelob Ultra, and Mateus Rosé.
Rangatira Retro
5 September
Hosted by Rangatira Alpine Sports Club, this popular Dual Slalom race welcomes competitors of all ages and abilities across a range of ski and snowboard categories.
Navy Interships & Air Force Championships
10 September
A day of alpine racing and friendly competition between military teams on the slopes of Whakapapa.
Adaptive Festival
11 - 13 September
A celebration of inclusive snow sports, bringing together people of all abilities to experience and enjoy the mountain.
Navy Club Championships
12 September
Club members compete in a day of racing that showcases alpine skill, speed, and sportsmanship.
Ngauruhoe Trophy Race
19 September
One of Whakapapa's longstanding alpine race events, attracting competitors from across the region.
Contingency date: 20 September
Tongariro Juniors Club Race
26 September
A race day dedicated to the next generation of alpine athletes.
Contingency date: 27 September
Waimarino Cup & North Island Championships
3 October
A premier North Island race event featuring some of the country's top alpine competitors.
Contingency date: 4 October
Whakapapa Freeride Festival
5 October
A showcase of freeride skiing and snowboarding, highlighting Whakapapa's unique terrain and mountain culture.
Weather window: 5 - 8 October
Pond Skim
10 October
Finish the season with one of Whakapapa's most anticipated events. Expect costumes, entertainment, and plenty of memorable attempts to skim across the icy pond.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're looking to improve your skills, test new equipment, compete, or simply enjoy the atmosphere on the mountain, Whakapapa's events calendar offers something for every snow enthusiast throughout the season. Please note that all events are subject to weather and snow conditions.
