Things to Do in Ruapehu

Waiouru  ::  Ohakune  :: National Park  ::  Whakapapa Village  ::  Taumarunui

South of Lake Taupo and overlooked by a triad of volcanoes, the high-altitude plateau setting of the Ruapehu region is a breathtaking location for a myriad of outdoor adventures. Explore the ski areas of Mount Ruapehu and the wilderness of Tongariro National Park, with its native forest, rugged hillsides, and white-water rivers, and stop over in small but hospitable villages like Ohakune, Waiouru, National Park Village and Whakapapa.

Experience the Region

• Situated at the heart of the North Island
• During the winter months, skiing on Mount Ruapehu is a great experience
• The pleasant little village of Ohakune is downright charming in winter
• The town of Taupo is close enough that it can also serve as a ski holiday base
• The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s best one-day walks
• Ruapehu offers a good selection of outdoor adventures, such as hiking and biking in and around Tongariro National Park.

• Visit the National Army Museum at Waiouru
• Spend a day hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
• Ski on a volcano!
• Brave the famous 42 Traverse mountain bike trail in Tongariro Forest Park
• Take a scenic Mt Ruapehu Helicopter Tour over the otherworldly landscape
• Go white-water rafting in Tongariro National Park

Useful Resources

• Official Site

All North Island Regions