Tongariro National Park Tours and Activities

Tongariro National Park which includes forest scenes
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Explore New Zealand’s phenomenal volcanic landscape and trek across one of the best known hiking trails in the country.

Enjoy outdoor adventures and superlative scenery when you explore Tongariro National Park. Go hiking, mountain biking, skiing and whitewater rafting in a wilderness that encompasses waterfalls, lakes, rivers and three active volcanoes.

The three volcanoes in Tongariro National Park were gifted to the country in 1887 by Te Heuheu, Chief of the Ngati Tuwharetoa Maori tribe. New Zealand’s oldest national park is also a dual World Heritage area for its importance to Maori culture and the magnificent volcanic features.

There are many hiking and mountain bike trails throughout the park, from gentle outings to more challenging routes. Take one of the volcanic walks on Mount Ruapehu, which was used as a filming location for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Trek through the countryside and stay overnight in a serviced backcountry hut or in a village lodge. A popular route is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 1-day hike encompasses barren mountains with volcanic craters, lava flows and emerald-green lakes.

Take part in some activities on the water. Kayak along the Whakapapa River through Tongariro Forest. There is also a 3-day canoe trip along the waterway. Go whitewater rafting in the Whanganui River. When the snow comes in the winter, head for the slopes of the Whakapapa Ski Area on Mount Ruapehu. Here you can ski, snowboard and go tobogganing.

Away from the outstanding scenery, Tongariro National Park also has some cultural sites that are well worth exploring. Stop by the 1923 glacier hut, which today houses a skiing museum. See Kaikawaka Villa, a bushman's hut from the 1930s and visit the Tongariro Chateau, a Georgian mansion.

Tongariro National Park is in the central part of North Island, about a 4- to 5-hour drive from Auckland or Wellington. It is also accessible by railway from both these places. Trains stop at the National Park Village which borders the expansive wilderness. It is open throughout the year and there is no entry fee.

Plan a trip to see Tongariro National Park

Opal Hot Springs & Holiday Park
Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit


Top Tongariro National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Skotel Alpine Resort
Skotel Alpine Resort
3.5 out of 5
Whakapapa Village, SH 48, Nagauruhoe Place Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park
Skotel Alpine Resort
The Park Hotel Ruapehu
The Park Hotel Ruapehu
3 out of 5
6 Millar Street, Tongariro National Park, National Park Village
The Park Hotel Ruapehu
Mountain Heights Lodge
Mountain Heights Lodge
3 out of 5
4576 SH 4, National Park Village, Manawatu-Wanganui
Mountain Heights Lodge
Adventure Lodge & Motel
Adventure Lodge & Motel
3.5 out of 5
21 Carroll Street, National Park Village
Adventure Lodge & Motel
Plateau Lodge
Plateau Lodge
3 out of 5
17 Carroll Street, National Park Village
Plateau Lodge
Tongariro Crossing Lodge
Tongariro Crossing Lodge
4.5 out of 5
27 Carroll Street, National Park Village, Tongariro
Tongariro Crossing Lodge
Howard's Lodge - Hostel
Howard's Lodge - Hostel
2 out of 5
43 Carroll St, National Park Village
Howard's Lodge - Hostel
Alpine Chalets
Alpine Chalets
3 out of 5
3 Findlay St, National Park Village, Manawatu-Wanganui
Alpine Chalets
Manowhenua Lodge - Hostel
Manowhenua Lodge - Hostel
2 out of 5
35 Mackenzie St, National Park Village, Manawatu-Wanganui
Manowhenua Lodge - Hostel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.