In winter and summer, the town of Ohakune is a base for adventures in the Tongariro National Park. It’s also the ‘carrot capital’ of New Zealand.
First settled by the Ngati Rangi (Sky People) and Ngati Uenuku (Rainbow People), Ohakune is the southern gateway to the Tongariro National Park. The ski fields of Mount Ruapehu are close by, so the town is well-equipped with accommodation, restaurants and snow-related retailers. During the warmer months, Ohakune looks after those who come to hike and climb in the national park. Other local adventure activities include mountain biking, white water rafting, horse riding and canoeing. Ohakune is also known as a market gardening area. The 10 metre carrot that welcomes you to the town is unforgettable, and every year in early August there’s a lively carrot festival.
Functional facts: Approx. population 1100, i-SITE Visitor Centre, train station.
