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Mount Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National Park, North Island

Visit Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

Visit Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

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At the southern end of Lake Taupo, the three active volcanic mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe are protected as a National Park. In the winter the area is a playground for skiers and in summer a wilderness for walking.

Tongariro National ParkDotted with emerald lakes and criss-crossed with lava flows, this is some of New Zealand’s most varied and remarkable terrain. The best way to explore is by tramping, but other activities including scenic flights, kayaking, rafting and mountain biking are on offer in the small local townships.

The Tongariro Crossing

Often billed as the finest one-day walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing is a superb introduction to the region’s scenic beauty. The track itself takes seven to eight hours to complete, with shuttles available to and from the start and end points.

It crosses alpine scrubland and moonscape craters, skirts emerald lakes and passes hot springs before descending through dense podocarp forest to the Ketatahi Hut. Optional side trips climb the summits of Mount Ngaurohoe and Mount Tongariro for panoramic views over the Thermal Plateau.

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Suggested itineraries featuring Tongariro National Park

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Tongariro National Park, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Tongariro National Park

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Tongariro National Park

    Photos of Tongariro National Park

    • Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National Park
      Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National Park
    • Tongariro Alpine Crossing Sign
      Tongariro Alpine Crossing Sign
    • Tongariro National Park
      Tongariro National Park
    • Hiking in Tongariro National Park
      Hiking in Tongariro National Park

    Accommodation choices for Tongariro National Park

    We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Tongariro National Park. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    • Ruapehu Country Lodge, Tongariro National Park

      Ruapehu Country Lodge

      Medium

      Ideally situated just a few minutes from Ohakune Township and Tongariro National Park, Ruapehu Golf & Country Lodge offers the perfect escape for those who love the great outdoors.

    • Chateau Tongariro, Tongariro National Park

      Chateau Tongariro Hotel

      Medium

      Situated in the heart of the Tongariro National Park, and with Mount Ruapehu as a stunning backdrop, the Tongariro Chateau undoubtedly boasts one of the finest locations in New Zealand.

    Ideas for experiencing Tongariro National Park

    Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Tongariro National Park, and which use the best local guides.

    • Tongariro National Park

      Tongariro Guided Walk

      Tongariro National Park

      This one day walk traverses the stark and spectacular volcanic terrain of Mount Tongariro, and is one of the most fascinating treks in the world. This walk is led by an expert guide who will provide informative commentary, so finding your way will not be a problem.

    • Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National Park

      Tongariro cycling

      Tongariro National Park

      This tour, which involves walking or riding along the historic cobblestone Coach Road through a bush corridor on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, is an exciting adventure and a journey back in time.