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Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest National Park – gifted to the people of New Zealand in 1887 by Te Heuheu Tukino IV (Horonuku), the chief of Ngati Tuwharetoa. Since then, thousands of visitors have enjoyed the splendour of this World Heritage Area – home of New Zealand’s top short walk, the Tongariro Crossing.

Location

Tongariro National Park is located in the central North Island, in the Ruapehu Region.
The closest centres are Taupo, Turangi and Ohakune
 

Getting to Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is highly accessible from all directions.
Regular bus and shuttle services run to and from the park from many North Island destinations. Transport is also available to and from the start/end points of the popular Tongariro Crossing.

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Accommodation in Tongariro National Park

Accommodation is available at Ohakune, Whakapapa Village and Turangi.

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Hiking & Walking Tracks in Tongariro National Park
  • The Tongariro Northern Circuit is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, and one of the park's key attractions.
  • The Tongariro Crossing is another of the park's most popular tracks, considered to be New Zealand's best short walk.  Taking one day to complete, this exquisite walk travels from forest to volcanic peak – through some of the most stunning scenery in the North Island. 
  • Other short walks include the Rimu Track at Ohakune and Alpine Walk (at Whakapapa) – both of which are wheelchair accessible. 

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Skiing Whakapapa & Turoa

The park is also home to the ski fields of Whakapapa and Turoa – found on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu (an active volcano).


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Tongariro Climate

Weather conditions throughout the region are extreme.  In the winter the area is blanketed in snow. In the summer temperatures can soar.
When walking in the area you must bring:

  • Good walking boots
  • Warm layers of clothing
  • Wet weather gear
  • Hats and gloves
  • A compass and maps
     
Contact

 Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Whakapapa Village
SH 48
Mt Ruapehu

Ph: +64 7 892 3729
tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz