Knoll Ridge Chalet
New Zealand's highest restaurant at 2,020 m, reached by Sky Waka gondola, with views over the Tongariro peaks and valleys.
Located at 2,020 m on the Whakapapa ski field of Mount Ruapehu, it is said to be New Zealand's highest dining venue. Rebuilt after a fire in 2009, it was once named one of the world's best-designed cafés. It is reached by the Sky Waka gondola, New Zealand's longest at 1.8 km, so you can visit in summer even without skiing. Inside are the self-service Pinnacles restaurant, the Pātaka café, street food stalls and a bar. Signature dishes include beer-battered fish and chips and slow-cooked beef cheek pie, and much of the produce comes from surrounding farms. A separate gondola ticket is required, and opening hours depend on the gondola schedule and the weather.
Opening hours
Operates with the Sky Waka gondola, generally during the day; winter and summer hours differ; closed in high winds; please check the official website before you go
Nearby sights
- Whakapapa Ski Area & Sky Waka
- Mount Ruapehu
- Silica Rapids
- Taranaki Falls
- Whakapapa Village & Visitor Centre
- Tūroa Ski Area
- Tama Lakes
- Mangawhero Falls