Raupehu, New Zealand

Where adventures begin

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.

Tongariro National Park played the part of Mordor in the Lord of the Rings. The desolate landscape around the park’s three huge volcanoes required no make up to become the wasteland of the Emyn Muil. The region is particularly eerie when the weather is overcast. Photo by David Wall (www.davidWallPhoto.com) Click on the image for larger version

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.

Skiing on an active volcano is the coolest way to go. Whakapapa skifield on Mt Ruapehu has killer views looking west to Mt Taranaki, and it’s often open right through to the first month of summer. In spring the skifield holds its Snowboard Festival – a total blast for devoted boarders. Photo by Chris McLennan (www.cmphoto.co.nz) Click on the image for larger version

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.