Skotel Alpine Resort, Whakapapa
About the Hotel
Skotel Alpine Resort is situated in Whakapapa Village, making it the closest hotel to Mount Ruapehu and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It serves as a gateway to New Zealand's renowned alpine adventures amidst the dramatic landscapes of Tongariro National Park. The resort is uniquely positioned within UNESCO World Heritage territory and sits at New Zealand's highest elevation for a hotel. Its location allows easy access to numerous local hiking trails and winter sports activities.
Location
Skotel is conveniently located within 500 meters of the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre and is accessible by road from both Auckland and Wellington, approximately 4.5 hours away. It also provides return shuttles to popular destinations, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing starting point. The resort's location is ideal for accessing local trails and the Whakapapa ski area, enhancing the experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Rooms
Skotel Alpine Resort offers diverse accommodation options to cater to various needs and budgets. The rooms feature modern amenities including King and Queen beds, ensuite bathrooms, and balconies with views of the Tongariro National Park. For backpackers, there are shared facilities, with communal kitchens and lounges available. Family accommodations can host up to eight guests, making it suitable for larger groups.
Eat & Drink
The onsite Skotel Restaurant & Bar provides a menu showcasing local produce with a full à la carte dinner service and buffet breakfast available daily. Guests can also pre-order packed lunches for their outdoor adventures. The bar offers a selection of drinks and features a terrace for dining with scenic views.
Leisure & Business
Facilities at Skotel Alpine Resort include a sauna, outdoor spa, gym, and games room. The resort also has a ski rental shop and seasonal shuttle services to local ski fields and hiking trails. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, and guests can unwind in the communal spaces after a day of outdoor activities.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free parking
- Off-site car park
- Safe deposit box
- No pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- Luggage storage
- Coffee shop
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Cycling
- Table tennis
- Fishing
Guest Parking
- Shared kitchen
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Paid shuttle service
- Housekeeping
- Ski equipment hire
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Shops/Commercial services
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Outdoor dining area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Children's buffet
- Children's play area
- Game room
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- BBQ facilities
- Leisure/ TV room
- Sauna
- Jacuzzi
Room features
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Patio
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Shared kitchen
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel is conveniently located right at the start and finish ends of the Tongariro Northern Circuit, making it perfect for backpackers like me. The rooms are small but clean, although they could use some updating. The service was friendly and accommodating, enhancing the experience of our adventurous holiday. The dining options were nice but a bit expensive, with a self-service meal setup. Overall, a decent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a practical stay near hiking tracks.
The hotel was a perfect base for exploring the Tongariro Crossing with its cozy rooms and friendly service. The dining options were satisfactory but could have been more diverse. The location offers breathtaking views of the National Park and convenient access to various attractions.
When I arrived, the room stunk of green smoke, which was not what I expected. It was also annoying to hear loud arguments from the staff area nearby. However, the location is terrific for exploring Tongariro National Park.
The hotel was cozy and offered value for money, but the rooms were below a minimal level of comfort, more suitable for young backpackers. The location was brilliant with quick issue resolution but slightly noisy near busy areas. Dining was good value, and service was fantastic with friendly and accommodating staff.
The hotel is perfectly situated, with a laundry room on-site, offering clean and comfortable rooms. The staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful, though the distance from the kitchen can be a slight inconvenience. The location is ideal for exploring nearby walks and the national park, with stunning views over the volcano.