Skotel Alpine Resort - Whakapapa

Highest hotel in New Zealand, located in Tongariro National Park with direct access to ski fields and hiking trails

Accommodation

Skotel Alpine Resort offers a range of room types, from backpacker bunk rooms with shared bathrooms to private Queen Rooms and Ngauruhoe Rooms with mountain views. All accommodations include access to the shared kitchen and lounge area, with some rooms featuring en suite bathrooms and mini fridges. The resort's building is divided into hostel-style wings and private room wings, with the Ngauruhoe and Tongariro rooms providing direct patio or deck access to the volcanic landscape.

Dining

The Terrace Restaurant offers an à la carte menu with views of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe, featuring local produce and a selection of wines and champagnes. Guests can also use the onsite bar with a fireplace and a coffee house on site for hot drinks during the day. A kids' menu and special diet menus are available, and advance reservations are recommended for dinner due to limited seating.

Location & Activities

Skotel Alpine Resort is the closest hotel to the Whakapapa Ski Fields, a 10-minute drive away, and a 20-minute drive from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing trailhead. Direct access to walking tracks such as Taranaki Falls and Tama Lakes starts from the hotel parking lot. Onsite ski equipment hire is available, and shuttle services to the ski field and Tongariro Crossing can be booked through Summit Shuttles.

Family

The resort provides a children's playground, an indoor play area with a large selection of toys, and a games room with table tennis and board games. Family-friendly room options include family suites and backpacker bunk rooms that can accommodate up to five people. The shared kitchen and lounge spaces allow families to cook their own meals, and the kid-friendly buffet at breakfast offers options for younger guests.

Wellness & Facilities

Guests can book the outdoor hot tub (spa) in 30-minute sessions for $5 per person, or use the free sauna and gym (though some gym equipment is non-functional). The property also has a BBQ area, picnic tables, and a sun terrace with panoramic mountain views. Additional facilities include a minimarket on site, laundry services, and luggage storage, plus accessible parking and facilities for disabled guests.

• Location: 10 min from Whakapapa Ski Fields, 20 min from Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Rooms: Queen, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe rooms plus backpacker dorms
• Dining: Terrace Restaurant with à la carte menu, local produce, mountain views
• Family: Children's playground, indoor play area, kids' meals, family suites
• Wellness: Hot tub (bookable), sauna, gym
• Activities: Onsite ski hire, shuttle service, direct trail access