Gardens are full of colour and native birds feast on blossoms and berries. Ski or board Mt Ruapehu's spring snow under a bright blue sky, or trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing after the ice has thawed.
The 800 square kilometre Tongariro National Park (a World Heritage Area) is the centre of attraction for this region. It was gifted to the country by the local Ngati Tuwharetoa people, who recognised that a treasure so precious needed to belong to all New Zealanders.
Browse our collection of images to see what the region has to offer:
Where adventure begins
The 800 square kilometre Tongariro National Park (a World Heritage Area) is the centre of attraction for this region. It was gifted to the country by the local Ngati Tuwharetoa people, who recognised that a treasure so precious needed to belong to all New Zealanders.
The park protects three of New Zealand's most dramatic natural assets - the active andesitic volcanoes Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. On a clear day at any time of the year, the mountains are an awe-inspiring sight. Their cones and surrounding lava fields provide amazing opportunities for adventure and exploration.
The Whanganui National Park is a micro-world of diverse landscapes. It has fast and slow running rivers, crystal clear waterfalls, deep gorges, wide river flats and extensive wilderness areas that are rich in native flora and fauna.
The Whanganui River was once the main route into the North Island's interior. It has a fascinating history of wars, steamboats, water-driven flourmills and abandoned homes and farms. Forty generations of Maori have learned passion and patience from this mighty river.
Ruapehu's main settlements are the ski towns of National Park and Ohakune, the army town of Waiouru and the rural service centre of Taumarunui, nestled on the banks of the Whanganui and Ongarue rivers. Local knowledge and expert guides make it easy to discover the region's famous hiking trails, fishing spots, kayaking, canoeing, horse riding and mountain biking experiences.
Key Features
Volcanic hiking Gifted to the nation by the Ngati Tuwharetoa, Tongariro National Park enshrines three massive active volcanoes. Unforgettable hiking trails, including the famous Tongariro Crossing, run around and up the mountains.
Whanganui National Park
The Whanganui River winds its way through hills and valleys from the mountains of the central North Island to the Tasman Sea. To appreciate its beauty, kayak or journey down the river with local Maori guides.
Winter sports
Imagine skiing or snowboarding on an active volcano. On Mount Ruapehu, it's a reality. Turoa and Whakapapa ski areas will tempt you with world class facilities and a huge range of runs - from beginner to advanced.
Key Tips
The Ruapehu region is home to the Tongariro National Park, the Whanganui National Park and the Whanganui River. It is a four hour drive from Auckland or Wellington and close to Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Taupo.
Mountain weather can be cold, even in summer months, so be prepared. You should also be well equipped for journeys in the remote Whanganui National Park.
When it comes to disposing of rubbish in the national parks and conservation areas, the rule is "carry it in, carry it out".
Consider enlisting the services of an experienced local guide, who will enrich your travels with knowledge of the landscape and its history.
MEMORY: Submitted by Danene from Australia
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i have only experienced the north island and found it to be amazing: the horse riding, fishing, camping, trekking etc etc etc.
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Lord of the Rings in Ruapehu View the slopes of Mt Doom, the setting of battle of the Last Alliance and Ohakune, where Gollum caught fish beneath the forested slopes of Mt Ruapehu.
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Mount Ruapehu Every year hundreds of thousands of skiers take advantage of the only ski field in the world within 500 metres of an active volcanic crater.
Filmed on the Whanganui River, River Queen is the story of a young woman's epic search for her lost son. Find out more about the movie and about the Whanganui River.
Home to the beautiful whio (blue duck), this park encloses the wild upper and middle reaches of the Whanganui River - New Zealand's longest navigable waterway.
Filmed on the Whanganui River, River Queen is the story of a young woman's epic search for her lost son. Find out more about the movie and about the Whanganui River.
Home to the beautiful whio (blue duck), this park encloses the wild upper and middle reaches of the Whanganui River - New Zealand's longest navigable waterway.
Filmed on the Whanganui River, River Queen is the story of a young woman's epic search for her lost son. Find out more about the movie and about the Whanganui River.
Home to the beautiful whio (blue duck), this park encloses the wild upper and middle reaches of the Whanganui River - New Zealand's longest navigable waterway.
Spring is the season of the big thaw. Rivers are full to capacity, adding an extra dimension of excitement to rafting and kayaking adventures. There’s an avalanche risk on the mountains, so it isn’t wise to venture too high when you’re hiking. Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields will still be operating in early spring. To avoid crowds, hike the Tongariro Crossing before the peak season arrives. Weather can change quickly, so pack for every eventuality. Always check conditions with the local visitor information centre before setting out.
Home to the beautiful whio (blue duck), this park encloses the wild upper and middle reaches of the Whanganui River - New Zealand's longest navigable waterway.
