Adventure Magazine

5.Tongariro Alpine
Crossing
Renowned as one of the world’s best one day
hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a bucket
list contender that’s so incredible you’ll want
to come back and do this once in a lifetime
experience again. Trek 19.4 km of raw, rugged,
magnificent terrain of Tongariro National Park
- a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site of
natural and cultural significance and NZ’s oldest
national park. In this environment, you can never
underestimate the elements so it’s important
to plan for your hike by bringing the right gear,
checking the weather, letting someone know
your plans, or better yet, going with a local
guide who can also organise accommodation,
track transport, and meals, so you can enjoy the
Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the max.
Above: Summer on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Below: Tongariro Alpine Crossing Emerald Lakes
Where to stay
From adventure lodges to riverside chalets and mountainside
chateaus, Ruapehu has a fantastic variety of glorious, gorgeous
accommodation options that will woo you to stay an extra night or two.
Weave your way through cosy alpine villages and charming mountain
towns as you journey along the Adventure Highway from Taumarunui,
National Park Village, Whakapapa Village, Ohakune to Waiouru.
Waking up with the mountains at your doorstep or the river running by
is the perfect inspiration for exploring the great outdoors. With many
accommodation operators offering special summer packages, it’s the
perfect time to grab a deal to stay and play in Ruapehu this summer.
Where to eat, drink and be merry
Active holidays mean you get to fuel up on the good stuff and indulge
in a few treats as well. There’s no shortage of fantastic food and
beverage to enjoy in Ruapehu where you can tour a local meadery
and brewery and book a tasting, indulge in world-famous chocolate
eclairs, Devonshire tea in a 5-star garden of national significance,
fantastic food trucks, boutique bakeries, bakehouses, tantalising
toasties and even picnic with alpacas.
Safety in our greater outdoors
The weather in Tongariro National Park is changeable all year
round so it’s best to prepare and pack for all weather conditions. It’s
important to let someone know of your plans, check for any alerts from
the Department of Conservation’s website and download the free Plan
my Walk app developed by the NZ Mountain Safety Council. You can
learn more about it at:
https://www.mountainsafety.org.nz/about-plan-my-walk/
Start planning for an unforgettable Ruapehu summer at www.visitruapehu.com
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