Sightseeing and day walks in the heart of the Ruapehu District.
Tongariro National Park is recognised as a World Heritage Site listed because of its unique active volcanic attributes and also its special cultural significance. There are three majestic volcanoes: Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro.
Born of fire and ice: Intense volcanic activity and retreating glaciers from the last ice age have left amazing landscapes, colours, sculptures, and natural features.
Must Do’s in the Park
Take a scenic chairlift ride to 2020 meters up Mt Ruapehu – The largest of the three mountains -with breath-taking views up the mountain and the surrounding area, you can then enjoy a delicious meal and coffee at the Knoll ridge –NZs highest café. A great trip for all ages. Just take your camera!
For the more adventurous you can walk to the Crater Lake on Mount Ruapehu. Summer guided tours are available – see www.mtruapehu.com. This is a full one day walk. Check weather conditions first and take alpine survival gear.
½ Day / One Day Walks:
Mangawhero Rimu Track (10 mins) and Forest Walk (1hr) start just a few minutes walk up the road from our door.
Waitonga Falls (1hr 30m) begins on the Ohakune Mountain road. Magnificent mountain views and a 30m high waterfall.
Mangaturuturu Valley Hut & Lake Surprise (5hr return trip) Experience unique cascades, a stunning river valley forged from an ancient glacier, with unlimited views of Mt Ruapehu and a hidden lake gem.
Ruapehu Western and Southern Traverses. Both trails have their start point off the Ohakune mountain road and are approx. 20km in length. The walks follow the round the mountain track to the left (Western) or to the right (Southern). Spectacular water features, waterfalls, swing bridges, glacial valleys, lahar rivers, scoria lava flows, lush native bush, traditional tramping huts and majestic mountain views are just some of the features to be encountered on these walks.
Shuttle pick up at the finish points can be arranged at reception. For more information on walking tracks and facilities in the Tongariro National Park, visit the Department of Conservation website: www.doc.govt.nz or ask at reception.
