Sitting at 2020 metres above sea level, the Knoll Ridge Chalet is, in our view, one of New Zealand’s most memorable mountain destinations. Perched high on the Whakapapa Ski Area of Mt Ruapehu and reached by the Sky Waka gondola, it offers a window into the heart of the North Island’s volcanic landscape – in both winter and summer.
To reach it, take the Sky Waka gondola from Whakapapa base area
The ride carries you over ancient lava flows, past rugged ridgelines, and up into the clouds before revealing the chalet clinging to the mountain’s edge. From the Knoll Ridge Chalet, the views stretch across the Pinnacles and out to Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro. The terrain is like no other in New Zealand.
Inside, the building feels warm and welcoming against the alpine backdrop
The Pātaka Café sits within the chalet, serving casual bites and hot drinks – ideal after a walk, a gondola ride, or a round of snow play outside when winter conditions allow. The architecture mirrors the mountain around it: strong, angular, and made to withstand the elements, yet full of light that pours through wide glass walls.
In summer, Knoll Ridge is the perfect spot to experience the mountain without the snow — the Tea at 2020 Metres high tea experience is offered here, combining fine views with a relaxed alpine atmosphere. In winter, it becomes part of the rhythm of the ski season, a place where skiers, snowboarders, and sightseers gather to take in the incredible surroundings.
High Tea at 2020 Metres
In summer, the mountain slows down, the snow gives way to rocky ridgelines and alpine light – and Knoll Ridge Chalet takes on a new quieter rhythm. This is when you can book “Tea at 2020m”, our take on a traditional high tea, served at the top of the Sky Waka gondola in the Knoll Ridge Chalet.
A menu of sandwiches, savouries, and cakes is served on a two-tiered cake stand, with your choice of tea or coffee – or, if you feel like celebrating, a flute of prosecco for the Royal High Tea or a gin and tonic for the Gin Tea. Quite possibly the highest high tea in the world.
Whatever time of year you visit, Knoll Ridge is a reminder of just how alive and awe-inspiring New Zealand’s landscapes can be – where you can stand between sky and stone and feel the pulse of the mountain beneath your feet.
What you need to know:
- Location: At the top of the Sky Waka Gondola, Whakapapa Ski Area, Mt Ruapehu
- Altitude: 2020 metres – New Zealand’s highest café and viewing area
- Access: Via the Sky Waka Gondola from Whakapapa Base (tickets available online or at the base station)
- Open: Year-round (weather dependent); summer season runs late November to April, winter alongside ski operations
- Facilities: Pātaka Café, Tea at 2020 Metres experience (summer only), snow play area (when conditions allow)
- Highlights: Panoramic views across the Pinnacles and Tongariro National Park, easy access for non-skiers, spectacular photo opportunities
- Website: whakapapa.com
