The dramatic centre of New Zealand's volcanic history
The Tongariro National Park encircles the volcanoes of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. It was gifted to the nation by Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV in 1887. Just over a hundred years later, the park was awarded World Heritage Site status.
The fact that the volcanoes are active doesn't deter people from skiing down their slopes and hiking to their craters. A monitoring system provides early warning of eruptions.
The park's most celebrated activity is the 'Tongariro Alpine Crossing', a day trek that traverses the otherworldly landscape between Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Steaming craters, old lava flows and thermal lakes make the walk an unforgettable experience.
Key Highlights
| Skiers enjoy the Whakapapa ski area on Mount Ruapehu. |
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At 2797, 2291 and 1968 metres respectively, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro are sizeable volcanoes. Tongariro's huge massif extends over 18 kilometres in length - classic, cone-shaped Ngauruhoe is actually one of Tongariro's vents. Ruapehu had the honour of playing Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
The mountains of this national park have deep spiritual significance for the Maori people. Legend has it that the high priest Ngatoroirangi was frozen in a snowstorm while exploring Tongariro and called to Hawaiki, the traditional Polynesian homeland of the Maori, for fire. His prayer was answered, via the channel we now call the Pacific Rim of Fire, and the mountain erupted.
The lower slopes of the mountains are blanketed with forest, which provides a habitat for many native birds. New Zealand's only native mammals, short and long tailed bats, also live in the park.
Accommodation
In the park
The walk known as the Tongariro Northern Circuit is served by four Department of Conservation 'Great Walk' huts. DOC also has a number of 'Serviced' and 'Basic' huts in other parts of the park. At Whakapapa village there are campsites and cabins as well as motels and resort hotels. The most luxurious accommodation within the park is the historic Bayview Chateau Tongariro. Bookings are required in peak season.
Around the park
Various types of accommodation can be found in and around the towns Turangi, National Park Village and Ohakune.
Key Activities
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other walks
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| Unusual landscapes are a feature of the Tongariro National Park |
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The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, completed by about 70,000 hikers every summer, features phenomenal volcanic scenery and fine views of Lake Taupo and Mt Taranaki. Overnight challenges include the four-day Northern Circuit and the six-day Round the Mountain track - one of New Zealand's Great Walks. The park also offers many shorter walks to waterfalls and fascinating volcanic features - including the crater of Ruapehu.
Skiing
Enjoy excellent skiing and boarding at Mount Ruapehu's ski areas - Whakapapa and Turoa. For non-skiers there is tobogganing and tubing or just drive up to see the spectacular view! The ski season usually begins in July and often runs until late spring. In summer, at Whakapapa, scenic chairlift rides and guided hikes to Ruapehu's Crater Lake are also available.
River fun
The Tongariro River provides an invigorating dip into the world of white water rafting. A succession of grade 3 rapids promises an exciting trip. Fly fishermen enthuse about the rainbow trout that are prolific in the streams and rivers around the park.
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MEMORY:
Submitted by Ann from New Zealand
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As a treat we stayed at the Chateau (where LOTR film crew had stayed) & WOW it was absolutely brilliant!
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Read more
Submit a memory ›
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www.newzealand.com Pages
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Other Sites
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www.mountainsafety.org.nz
For comprehensive information about preparing for the outdoors
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National Park Village
Explore the places to stay and things to do in the Tongariro National Park region, known as the National Park Village.
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TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
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Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
Both skifields are in full swing, and at night the local towns are pumping with après ski activity. Dress warmly at all times, because temperatures can dip to -10°C at Whakapapa village.
Key Tips
- With adequate clothing, equipment and experience, visitors can enjoy the park at any time of year.
- Fill in an intention form at the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre if you plan to overnight in a hikers' hut.
- Take sunscreen and sunglasses, summer or winter.
- Before departing on a walk, check at the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre for up-to-date information on weather, volcanic activity and track conditions.
- When packing for an adventure in the park, be prepared for all weather eventualities.
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