Adventure 232

"With Tongariro National Park
at your doorstep and the iconic
triple peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt
Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe as
your backdrop, head to Ruapehu to
discover a network of world-class
walking and hiking tracks made for
intrepid explorers."
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
When winter arrives, the otherworldly landscapes of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
are transformed to something beyond your wildest dreams. Renowned as one of the
best one day hikes in the world, taking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during winter
is a unique wilderness adventure best experienced with a guide. The elements are
in full force with ice, snow, and alpine conditions to reckon with, so it is essential to
go a professional guide. Additional preparation, equipment, specialised navigation,
and high-level backcountry skills are essential to enjoy this winter expedition safely.
Even if you’ve already done the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during the summer months,
it’s another level of adventure during winter so book with a local guide to be able to
rediscover this iconic hike to the fullest.
Waitonga Falls
A favourite with locals, Waitonga Falls is Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfalls
at 39 metres high. With access from Ohakune Mountain Road, this 4 km easy and
well-formed return track offers incredible views of Mt Ruapehu with majestic panorama
from the Rotokawa pools alpine wetland area. The perfect spot to pause, reflect and
take in natural wonders of this UNESCO Dual World Heritage site of geological and
cultural significance.
Tawhai Falls
Short, sweet and a must-do for Lord of the Rings fans, the beautiful cascades of
Tawhai Falls is an easy, 20-minute short walk easily accessible from roadside along
State Highway 48 nearby National Park Village. This family friendly walk delivers
gorgeous views from the top of the falls along with an easy to follow track to the
bottom of the falls.
Mounds Walk
Come sundown, the quick and easy Mounds Walk is a great way to watch the sun go
down as golden hues sweep over this unique landscape. Just a few minutes’ drive
from National Park Village off of State Highway 48, the formed mounds is a stark
reminder of the unique natural environment and geological wonders of NZ’s oldest
National Park.
Taranaki Falls
Situated in the heart of Tongariro National Park, the Taranaki Falls Track is a 6 km
loop, well-formed track that’s regarded as one of best short walks in the area - even
during the winter months. Traverse dramatic volcanic terrain to the stunning Taranaki
Falls as its alpine waters cascade 20 metres down to picturesque pools. On a clear
day take in the spectacular views of Mt Ngāuruhoe and Mt Tongariro as you journey
through alpine shrublands, mountain beech forest and volcanic soils.
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