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Tongariro National Park

Tongariro is New Zealand's oldest national park, established in 1887 after the Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV gifted the sacred peaks to the nation. It was also only the fourth place on earth to be given recognition as a World Heritage area.

At the heart of the park are three volcanoes, Mount Tongariro, Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe. Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Ruapehu are considered the two most active composite volcanoes in the world with the latter erupting in 1995 and 1996 sending ash up to 30, 000 feet into the air.  In 2012 Mt Tongariro also erupted, but these volcanoes are constantly monitored to ensure visitor safety.

Despite the barren and sometimes inhospitable environment, the region abounds with flora and fauna. Alpine herbs and flaxes thrive on the upper slopes while dense beech forests cover the lower regions. New Zealand's only native mammals, the short and long tailed bat also make their homes here.

The 1 day Tongariro Crossing is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, taking around 6 to 8 hours to complete.  This magnificent walk will take you past the remarkable Emerald and Blue Lakes and through volcanic terrain you won’t see anywhere else in New Zealand. There are many other tracks and trails in the park to suit all abilities, including shorter walks and a guided Tongariro 3.5 day walk. Also lying within the park is New Zealand's largest ski area, Mt Ruapehu Ski Field, encompassing Whakapapa and Turoa.

Tongariro White Water Rafting

Tongariro White Water Rafting

You'll start your unforgettable adventure with an on-shore safety briefing and paddle instructions with your experienced guide. You and the rest of the crew will then begin your white water rafting journey on grade 3 rapids - an ideal grade for experienced paddlers or first-time rafters. In 2.5 hours you navigate over 60 heart-pounding, roller coaster rapids with an expert guide at the helm. Throughout the trip you'll be treated to sights only accessed by raft. Rafting the Tongariro River offers spectacular unspoilt wilderness and adrenalin-pumping action!

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

2 Hour Pre Sunset Guided Walk with Adrift Tongariro

2 Hour Pre Sunset Guided Walk with Adrift Tongariro

This is a superb way of experiencing Tongariro National Park and enjoying this stunning time of day. The sunset tour is an easy 2 hours in amongst the Tongariro Volcanoes. Your guide will pick and choose the exact route to suit the level of ability of the group. Walk for approximately 50 minutes before selecting the ideal spot to enjoy a glass of New Zealand bubbles as we watch the sunset. The preferred route is the Taranaki Falls loop track, other route options are a return trip starting on the world-famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing track, and a return route out to sunset ridge or Meads Wall. Your guide will talk about the area with their local knowledge of geology, volcanology, and New Zealand's cultural history. A memorable way to see the National Park with sunset lighting up a majestic Alpine setting.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information see here.

Premium Half Day Tongariro Alpine Tour with Adrift

Premium Half Day Tongariro Alpine Tour with Adrift

Begin your journey on the Tongariro Crossing track and immerse yourself in its splendour as you hike through the volcanic landscape, culminating at the picturesque Soda Springs waterfall. Mt. Ngauruhoe’s cold water springs create a small oasis adorned with lush yellow mountain buttercups and white foxgloves. The pristine Soda Springs provides an opportunity to refill our water bottles with pure Tongariro spring water while enjoying morning tea. Learn several aspects of Tongariro and New Zealand, including recent and historical eruptions, geology, flora and fauna, and the settlement of New Zealand.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information see here.

The Park Hotel Ruapehu to Train Station

The Park Hotel Ruapehu to Train Station

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to the Train Station.

Tongariro Crossing day hike

Tongariro Crossing day hike

Often described as the best one day walk in New Zealand, The Tongariro Crossing provides an opportunity to experience some of the most scenic volcanically active areas of the park.  The Tongariro Crossing is challenging and can take up to 8 hours covering a distance of 19.4 km one way. It is not a round trip and transport must be arranged at one or both ends of the track. Your hotel reception will be able to help you book a shuttle transport.
The Crossing is classed as a 'tramping track'. A demanding one day hike, you will need to have reasonable fitness. Traversing a mix of formed track and rough volcanic rock at alpine altitude, some sections are steep, rocky and muddy. However, the track is well marked with signs, poles and markers.
To book the crossing and for more information, including what to bring, visit the Department of Conservation website.

Tongariro Family Float Rafting

Tongariro Family Float Rafting

This leisurely two-hour trip down the soft, tumbling waters of the Lower Tongariro brings the magic alive for first time rafters and especially children. For those who want to experience white water rafting but prefer a gentler pace. You still get to paddle and there are some small rapids to navigate but nothing too wet or wild.
It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Walking tracks in the park

Walking tracks in the park

There are a plethora of walks in and around Whakapapa Village and Tongariro National Park. From short 15 minute hikes to longer 5 hour treks, there is something for every level of fitness. All established tracks are maintained by the Department of Conservation and before heading out on a walk, it is best to check the track conditions and suitability at the local DOC information office in the centre of the village. Below are a selection of the best walks to do:

  1. Whakapapa Nature Walk,15 min loop track
  2. Mounds Walk, 20 min one way
  3. Tawhai Falls, 20 min one way
  4. Ridge Track, 40min return
  5. Taranaki Falls, 2 hour return
  6. Whakapapanui Walk, 2 hour return
  7. Tupapakurua Falls Track, 5 hour return
New Zealand Touring Styles

A popular style of touring is to take a preplanned self drive road trip.  After a thorough consultation with you we expertly plan and create your self drive tour around New Zealand. These tours allow you the freedom to explore at leisure with the comfort and security of pre-booked activities and accommodations. Route suggestions, APP guidance plus local support mean your New Zealand vacation is in safe hands. See self drive ideas here

If you prefer to let someone else do the work then an escorted small group tour might be for you. Our sister company at New Zealanbd Coach has a range of hand picked small group itineraries are ideal if you prefer to travel in the company of like minded people. Tours are limited to a certain number of participants which means different accommodation options, exclusive activities and of course a knowledgeable guide ensures you get to see the best of New Zealand. See small group tours here. 

A private guided tour offers true flexibility and the security of a knowledgeable local guiding you all the way. Well planned itineraries ensure you see exactly what you want to see but with your own driver-guide you can adapt to suit the day or your preference. 100% tailor-made to suit you a private tour is a great option when travelling as a small group. All our self drive itineraries can be replanned and priced using a private driver and guide, so if it is what you fancy just contact us to discuss.

All North Island touring ideas - See here to explore the diverse North Island - itinerary suggestions.

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