No need to buy a pass for the gondola, as it is included in your ski-pass. Well it was last year, and I can't see them changing it, or it would take them all day to serve you before you were allowed on the Gondola.
Yes gondola is included in area ski pass, but for non-skiers/boarders a day return on the gondola is around a fiver and you get to go up to the main (meeting/learning) area, see what you're missing and have a beer etc. Long ride, around 20 mins each way. John.