Tongariro National Park

If you are thinking about visiting with your family, you can be confident that New Zealand has a wide range of activities to keep your children happy.

Things to Do in Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park, located in the central North Island of New Zealand, is a stunning natural area with a rich history.

Tongariro National Park Location & How to Get There

The NP lies in the heart of the North Island. Visitors can access it from nearby villages, including National Park, Whakapapa, Raurimu, and Erua. These villages offer various accommodation options, from family-friendly units to luxury lodges.

Useful Egmont NP Resources
Tongariro National Park Official Site Tongariro National Park Official Tourism Guide

To reach the NP:

You´ll ❤️ these great things to see & do…

  • Tongariro Alpine Crossing: This iconic day hike takes you through otherworldly landscapes, including the Emerald Lakes and the Red Crater. It’s a challenging but rewarding 12-mile (20.4 km) trek.
  • Whakapapa Ski Area: In winter, hit the slopes at Whakapapa, New Zealand’s largest ski area. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and stunning alpine views.
  • Taranaki Falls: A shorter walk (2 hours round trip) leads to Taranaki Falls, where you’ll see a beautiful waterfall framed by volcanic rock formations.
  • Silica Rapids Track: A 3-hour loop track through native forest, with views of the Silica Rapids and Mount Ruapehu.
  • Cultural Experience: Learn about the park’s significance to the local Māori people and their legends.

Tongariro National Park: A Natural Wonder

Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers an area of 307.3 square miles (795.9 sq km) and is home to three active volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu. The park’s dramatic landscapes include alpine meadows, emerald lakes, and rugged terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an all-season, 20.4 km trek that takes you through pristine alpine lakes, volcanoes, and unique New Zealand landscapes. You’ll encounter craters, untouched lakes, and volcanic activity along the way.

On average, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing takes six to eight hours to complete. It’s a challenging 20.4 km walk, starting with a climb to Red Crater and descending through volcanic ash and scree. A moderate to good level of fitness is recommended.

Absolutely! The stunning natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and unique features make it a must-visit. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, Tongariro National Park won’t disappoint.

The trek requires a moderate to good level of fitness. You’ll climb nearly 800 m in altitude to 1900 m above sea level, and the descent from Red Crater involves coordination and balance. Be prepared for the possibility of oxygen deficiency and consider turning back if needed.

While the Tongariro Alpine Crossing itself takes a day, consider staying longer to explore other trails and enjoy the park’s beauty. Accommodations are available in nearby townships like National Park Village and Whakapapa Village.

As of October 2024, bookings are required for all visitors, but there’s no cost for bookings during the 2024/2025 season. Shuttle services are recommended, and parking restrictions apply at both ends of the track during peak season.

Swimming isn’t a common activity on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing due to the alpine environment and the focus on hiking. However, you’ll encounter pristine lakes along the way.

The trek is doable year-round but be prepared for extreme conditions in winter (May to October). Experienced guides are available for winter treks. Summer offers pleasant weather, but any season can be rewarding.

While sneakers are not recommended, sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction are essential. The volcanic terrain can be challenging, so proper footwear is crucial.

Opt for licensed shuttle services from nearby townships rather than parking at the track ends. Booking in advance and sharing costs with fellow hikers can also help keep expenses down.

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