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Mt Ruapehu, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is a popular destination for families. With its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and family-friendly accommodations, it’s the perfect place for a family getaway.
Historically, the iconic Chateau Tongariro was a landmark accommodation in the area, known for its grandeur and proximity to Whakapapa Village. Sadly, it has since permanently closed, leaving only a handful of accommodation choices in the heart of Whakapapa Village.
However, this has paved the way for a variety of new lodges and accommodations to spring up in the wider Mt Ruapehu region. These lodges, about half an hour’s drive away from Whakapapa Village, offer a range of amenities and services that cater to families. They provide a diverse selection of options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly motels, ensuring that there’s something to suit every family’s needs and budget.
This guide will give you an overview of the accommodations in Mt Ruapehu, helping you to decide where to stay in Mt Ruapehu for your family trip.
Table of Contents
How to get to Mt Ruapehu
Direct Route: If you’re travelling from Auckland, the most direct route to Mt Ruapehu and Whakapapa Ski Field is a 4.5 hrs drive via the state highways. That is a non-stop direct route to the mountains.
Scenic Route: However, most travellers make pitstop along the way and explore New Zealand’s top destinations like Hamilton and Rotorua. Depending on the time you have available for this trip, you may consider staying overnight at one of these destinations.
The best accommodation base for Mt Ruapehu
Depending on which ski field you plan to visit and your family’s itinerary, you might want to choose Whakapapa Village to be closer to Happy Valley, or stay in Ohakune to enjoy its shops and restaurants, and stay closer to Turoa Ski Field. Alternatively, consider National Park Village for a quieter but centrally located base for exploring both ski fields.
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Mt Ruapehu Accommodation Locations
The location of your accommodation will greatly influence your experience and itinerary for your family trip to Mt Ruapehu. If you’re coming from Auckland for the weekend, the general plan is to dedicate an entire day or two to snow play in one of the ski fields, typically on day 2, after a rest from the long road trip.
Depending on the length of your stay, you might want to explore some of the hiking trails around the region. You can find the most popular hiking tracks in our post, 26 Amazing Things To Do in Mt Ruapehu. Both Whakapapa Village and Ohakune offer family-friendly accommodations and nature walks, and with just a 45-minute drive separating Whakapapa Village and Ohakune, you can experience the best of both worlds if you have an extra day to spare!
Whakapapa Village is a popular base for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during the summer months and is a short 10-minute drive from the Whakapapa Ski Field in the winter months. This area is known for its many family-friendly short nature hikes and walks.
Ohakune Village, the closest settlement to Turoa Ski Field, is mostly suited for intermediate or advanced skiers. Ohakune is known for its Giant Carrot Adventure Park for those with little ones. While there are a few short nature walks in Ohakune, it is more commercialised than Whakapapa Village.
National Park Village, nestled in the heart of the Tongariro National Park, serves as a central base for exploring both the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields. This makes it an ideal choice for families who wish to experience the best of both ski areas. The village is less commercialised than Ohakune, offering a tranquil setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Despite its quiet atmosphere, it provides a range of accommodations and dining options to cater to families. In addition to winter sports, the village is a gateway to various nature walks and hiking trails, making it a great year-round destination.
New Zealand by Region
Mt Ruapehu Accommodation: Whakapapa Village
Whakapapa Village, nestled at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, is a prime location for families seeking to make the most of their trip. If you’re travelling with kids and plan to spend most of your time at Happy Valley, then Whakapapa Village is an excellent choice for your family base.
Known for its proximity to the Whakapapa Ski Field, the village is a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer months, it serves as a base for those looking to explore the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the numerous family-friendly nature walks in the area.
Despite being at the heart of the action, Whakapapa Village has a handful of accommodation options, making travel planning straightforward. Ranging from budget to mid-range, these establishments cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. Many offer amenities such as drying rooms for ski gear, spa facilities, and on-site dining options, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for families.
Let’s introduce you to our family’s favourite.
Skotel Alpine Resort: Family’s Favourite Mt Ruapehu Accommodation
Our family has had the pleasure of staying in numerous accommodations in Mt Ruapehu, and we can confidently vouch for the Skotel Alpine Resort, particularly for families with young children. This recommendation is predominantly based on two reasons: the resort’s proximity to family-friendly nature walks and its closeness to Happy Valley in the Whakapapa Ski Resort.
We’ve had the opportunity to stay in two different room types at the Skotel Alpine Resort: the superior queen + single and the family room. Both room types are located on the ground floor and open out to an expansive deck that offers panoramic views of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Ruapehu.
During the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, the views of these majestic Alps are nothing short of breathtaking. There’s something truly special about waking up to a world-class view with a warm cup of coffee in hand.
Here’s a short 30-second video of our family room in Skotel Alpine Resort:
💡Insider Tip!
When booking accommodations in Mt Ruapehu, it’s important to manage expectations. The region is known for its boutique, cosy alpine lodges rather than 5-star modern hotels. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be compromising on comfort or luxury.
The true luxury of these Mt Ruapehu accommodations lies in their proximity to nature and the change of scenery they offer. After a day of outdoor adventures, there’s nothing quite like returning to a comfortable bed in a heated room, surrounded by the tranquillity of the mountains.
So, if you ask our family where to stay in Mt Ruapehu, without a doubt, we would recommend Skotel Alpine Resort. This accommodation offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty. It’s an experience that captures the essence of a family trip to Mt Ruapehu, making it our family’s top recommended Mt Ruapehu accommodation.
Popular accommodations in Mt Ruapehu, like the Skotel Alpine Resort, tend to book out quickly, especially during peak seasons. So, be sure to check availability and secure your dates as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Whakapapa Holiday Park: Budget-Friendly Accommodation
If you prefer to stay in the heart of Whakapapa Village, situated across the road from Whakapapa Visitor Centre is Whakapapa Holiday Park. This is the best budget-friendly Mt Ruapehu accommodation to rest your head after a long day out in the snow.
This holiday park offers a range of accommodations to suit various needs and preferences, including campsites in the summer months and family suites or cabins for those seeking a bit more comfort and privacy.
If you’re the type of traveller who’s out the door at sunrise, ready to seize the day, and only returns at dusk to rest and recharge, then Whakapapa Holiday Park is the perfect fit. It offers affordable accommodation in the best possible location, right on the doorstep of Whakapapa Ski Field. This means less time travelling and more time enjoying the snow or exploring the stunning natural surroundings.
Despite its affordability, Whakapapa Holiday Park doesn’t compromise on service or amenities. The staff are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
In recent years, the park has implemented reliable Wi-Fi, a bonus for families wanting to stay connected or plan their activities in the area. There aren’t many restaurants inside Whakapapa Village, so the on-site food truck is a handy dining option for convenience. As mentioned previously, there are only a couple of accommodation options in Whakapapa Village, so book early to secure your dates.
Mt Ruapehu Accommodation: Ohakune
While Whakapapa Village offers a few excellent accommodation choices, you may find yourself seeking alternatives when it comes to selecting the best family accommodations in Mt Ruapehu. If you’re considering where to stay in Mt Ruapehu beyond Whakapapa Village, Ohakune emerges as a fantastic base for families planning a trip to the region. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent dining options, and proximity to the Turoa Ski Field, Ohakune offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and town amenities.
Ohakune has a wider range of accommodation choices than Whakapapa Village. From the family-friendly holiday park to a variety of motels, lodges, chalets, and chateaus, you can find an option that fits your budget and needs.
The Powderhorn Chateau
When it comes to family-friendly accommodations in Mt Ruapehu, The Powderhorn Chateau in Ohakune stands out. This charming chateau, recommended by many families alike, offers a unique blend of comfort and luxury.
Our family had a wonderful experience during our 3-night stay here. The chateau was well-heated and provided a cosy retreat after a day of outdoor adventures. This classic boutique alpine lodge, with its fairytale-like charm, added a touch of magic to our stay.
Located conveniently close to popular attractions like the Ohakune Old Coach Road and the Ohakune Carrot Adventure Park, The Powderhorn Chateau ensures you’re never far from the action. Yet, its tranquil setting allows for a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure.
The chateau offers a range of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Top room features include a minibar, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing environment for families.
Dining is a delight at The Powderhorn Chateau. An on-site restaurant and lounge provide convenient and delicious meal options, saving you the trouble of venturing out for food after a long day of activities. If there’s one advantage of staying in Ohakune over Whakapapa Village, it would be the variety of dining options.
For those looking to unwind, an indoor heated pool is available, offering a great way to relax and enjoy some downtime. Unfortunately, the pool is not permitted for children under the age of 5, so we didn’t get to enjoy this facility during our stay.
The Powderhorn Chateau is about a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive to the Ohakune town centre. There is a shuttle service that runs between the hotel and town, which is free for guests.
With its excellent location, top-notch amenities, and unique characteristics, The Powderhorn Chateau is a fantastic choice for families seeking accommodations in Mt Ruapehu.
Holiday Homes in Ohakune
If your family prefers to stay closer to the heart of the action, there are several top-rated holiday homes near the Ohakune Town Centre and The Giant Carrot Park that you might want to consider. These accommodations are conveniently located near modern facilities, making it easy for your family to explore the town and its various attractions.
These holiday homes range from cozy cottages perfect for a small family to larger houses that can accommodate a big group. They offer all the comforts of home, including fully-equipped kitchens for those nights when you want to stay in and cook a family meal. After a day of adventure, you can unwind in the spa facilities that some of these homes offer.
Here, we have handpicked the most conveniently located, top-rated holiday homes and chalets in Ohakune for families.
This spacious home sleeps up to 12 people and has its own private spa. It is located in a quiet area, just a short walk from the town centre.
This modern home sleeps up to 10 people and has stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is located in a convenient spot, close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
This luxurious home sleeps up to 10 people and has its own private spa. It is located in a quiet area, with stunning views of the mountains.
This charming home sleeps up to 8 people and is located in a quiet area, close to the town centre. It has a large deck with barbecue facilities.
This stylish home sleeps up to 10 people and has its own private spa. It is located in a convenient spot, close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
This is a beautiful holiday home with a gorgeous view of Mt Ruapehu. It has spacious open-plan living, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, a fully equipped kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, laundry facilities and more.
This modern home sleeps up to 8 people and has its own private spa. It is located in a quiet area, with stunning views of the mountains.
This spacious home sleeps up to 12 people and has a large deck with stunning views of the mountains. It is located in a convenient spot, close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
This modern home sleeps up to 10 people and has stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is located in a quiet area, close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
This company offers a variety of chalets to suit all budgets and group sizes. They are all located in a convenient spot, close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
This lodge is located in a quiet area, surrounded by native bush. It has a range of facilities, including a spa, sauna, and steam room.
This is a 3-bedroom chalet that sleeps up to 8 people. It’s located in a quiet area, just a short walk from the Turoa ski field. This chalet has a private patio and garden, as well as a barbecue area.
As you can see, there are many beautiful, cosy holiday homes nestled in the town of Ohakune, close to the Giant Carrot Park and Turoa Ski Field. So when it comes to deciding where to stay in Mt Ruapehu, enjoy a spa retreat in one of the many accommodations here in Ohakune.
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Mt Ruapehu Accommodation: National Park Village
If you’re considering accommodations in Mt Ruapehu that are quieter and centrally located between the ski fields, National Park Village is a great choice. This peaceful village is conveniently situated for exploring both the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields, making it an ideal base for families who wish to experience the best of both areas.
National Park Village offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury lodges. Despite its tranquil setting, the village provides a variety of dining options, ensuring that your family’s needs are well-catered for during your stay.
Here is a list of our handpicked accommodations in National Park Village that are spacious, have a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and are family-friendly.
This spacious holiday home sleeps up to 6 people and has stunning views of Mount Ruapehu. It is located in a quiet area, just a short walk from the town centre.
This luxury lodge offers self-contained chalets and apartments, sleeping up to 8 people. It is located in a quiet area, close to the Tongariro National Park.
This lodge offers comfortable accommodation, sleeping up to 12 people. It is located in a convenient spot, close to restaurants, shops, and activities.
These apartments sleep up to 4 people and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. They are located in a quiet area, close to the town centre.
This charming home sleeps up to 5 people and is located in a quiet area, close to the town centre. It has a large deck with barbecue facilities.
This luxurious lodge offers self-contained chalets and apartments, sleeping up to 8 people. It is located in a quiet area, close to the Tongariro National Park.
This spacious holiday home sleeps up to 6 people and has stunning views of Mount Ruapehu. It is located in a quiet area, just a short walk from the town centre.
National Park Holiday Home: This modern holiday home sleeps up to 6 people and has a private spa. It is located in a quiet area, close to the town centre.
This spacious holiday home sleeps up to 8 people and has a private spa. It is located in a quiet area, close to the town centre.
This charming holiday home sleeps up to 4 people and has stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is located in a quiet area, close to the town centre.
This luxurious holiday home sleeps up to 6 people and has a private spa. It is located in a quiet area, close to the town centre.
While our family has yet to experience a stay in National Park Village, its central location is a definite advantage for those planning to visit both ski fields. As you can see, there’s a variety of accommodation options in this region, catering to different needs and budgets.
However, if none of the above options pique your interest, don’t worry! There are plenty more accommodations in Mt Ruapehu for you to explore.
Choosing Your Mt Ruapehu Accommodation
Choosing the right accommodation can make a significant difference in your family’s Mt Ruapehu experience. Whether you prefer the convenience of Whakapapa Village, the lively atmosphere of Ohakune, or the central location of National Park Village, each area offers unique advantages and a range of accommodations to suit your family’s needs and budget.
Remember, the best place to stay in Mt Ruapehu depends on your family’s preferences and the activities you plan to do. Consider the proximity to the ski fields, the availability of dining options, and the type of accommodation that will best suit your family.
No matter where you choose to base your family, Mt Ruapehu is sure to provide a memorable adventure with its stunning landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and welcoming accommodations. Happy planning, and enjoy your family trip to Mt Ruapehu!
Mt Ruapehu 3 Day Itinerary from Auckland
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
Morning to Afternoon: Depart from Auckland and enjoy the scenic drive to Mt Ruapehu. The journey is approximately 4 hours, so be sure to take breaks along the way and soak in the beautiful New Zealand landscape.
Afternoon: Arrive at your chosen accommodation in either Whakapapa Village or Ohakune. After checking in, take some time to rest and refresh from the journey.
Evening: Explore the local area and enjoy a relaxing dinner. Both Whakapapa Village and Ohakune offer a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes.
Day 2: Snow Play at Ski Fields
Morning: After a hearty breakfast, head to either Whakapapa Ski Field or Turoa Ski Field, depending on your accommodation location and skiing preferences.
Day: Spend the day enjoying the snow. Both ski fields offer a range of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels, from skiing and snowboarding to snow play areas for the little ones.
Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax. Consider dining in and sharing the highlights of the day over a warm, home-cooked meal.
Day 3: Exploring the Region
Morning: Start the day with a leisurely breakfast. Then, prepare for a day of exploring the natural beauty of the Mt Ruapehu region.
Day: Embark on a hike on one of the many trails in the area. The region offers a variety of hiking options, from short, family-friendly walks to more challenging treks. Remember to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Evening: Return to your accommodation and enjoy your last evening in Mt Ruapehu. Consider dining out at a local restaurant to celebrate the end of an unforgettable family trip.
Departure Day
After breakfast, check out from your accommodation and begin the journey back to Auckland. Leave with beautiful memories and plans to return to Mt Ruapehu for your next family adventure.
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Wrapping Up
After a thorough exploration of the various accommodation options in Mt Ruapehu, it’s clear that this region in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island offers a diverse range of options to suit every family’s needs and budget. From the grandeur of The Powderhorn Chateau in Ohakune to the family-friendly Skotel Alpine Resort in Whakapapa Village, each accommodation option provides unique advantages and experiences.
Remember, the best place to stay in Mt Ruapehu depends on your family’s preferences and the activities you plan to do. No matter where you choose to base your family, Mt Ruapehu is sure to provide a memorable adventure with its stunning landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and welcoming accommodations.
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