TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK
Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park, a sacred landscape of three magnificent, active volcanoes at the heart of the North Island. It is a place of profound cultural and natural significance.
It is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for both its unique volcanic features and its deep spiritual importance to the Māori people, the Ngāti Tūwharetoa iwi.
Most Popular Attractions
Volcanic Peaks & Alpine Treks:
Mount Ruapehu: The tallest volcano on the North Island and an active stratovolcano, home to major ski fields.
Mount Ngauruhoe: A near-symmetrical cone, famed worldwide as the cinematic Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings films.
Mount Tongariro: The namesake mountain of the park, part of the volcanic complex and a key feature of the main crossing.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Voted one of the best day hikes in the world, a challenging 19.4 km trek across a surreal volcanic landscape.
Emerald Lakes: Three vivid, mineral-rich crater lakes along the Alpine Crossing with striking turquoise-green colours.
Blue Lake (Te Wai-whakaata-o-te-Rangihiroa): A cold, sacred crater lake that is tapu (sacred) to Māori; swimming is prohibited.
Tongariro Northern Circuit: A multi-day (3-4 day) New Zealand Great Walk that circumnavigates Mount Ngauruhoe.
Red Crater: The high point of the Alpine Crossing, an active red-hued volcanic vent with steaming ground.
South Crater & Central Crater: Large, flat depressions crossed on the Alpine Crossing, providing a stark, barren landscape.
Ruapehu Crater Lake (Te Wai-a-moe): A lake that sits between the mountain’s peaks, known for its extreme temperature variations.
Waterfalls & Scenic Walks:
Taranaki Falls Track: An easy 6 km loop walk from Whakapapa Village to a picturesque 20-meter waterfall cascading over ancient lava flows.
Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s Pool): A short, easy walk to a beautiful waterfall and pool, famously used as a filming location for The Lord of the Rings.
Silica Rapids Track: A moderate 7 km loop that showcases unique golden-white terraces created by mineral-rich water.
Tama Lakes Track: An extension of the Taranaki Falls track that leads to views of two stunning crater lakes, Upper and Lower Tama.
Winter & Adventure Activities:
Whakapapa Ski Area: Located on Mount Ruapehu’s northern slopes, it is New Zealand’s largest ski field, catering to all ability levels.
Tūroa Ski Area: The southern ski field on Mount Ruapehu, known for its long, fast runs and challenging terrain.
Sky Waka Gondola: A modern gondola at Whakapapa offering scenic rides to Knoll Ridge Chalet at 2,020 meters altitude, providing magnificent panoramic views.
Ohakune Old Coach Road: A popular historic 15 km track for walking and mountain biking between Ohakune and Horopito, featuring viaducts and native bush.
Tongariro River Rafting: High-adrenaline white-water rafting adventures on the Tongariro River, known for its grade 3 rapids.
Cultural & Historic Sites:
Whakapapa Visitor Centre: The main park information and interpretation center, a key starting point for many walks.
Chateau Tongariro Hotel: A historic and majestic hotel in Whakapapa Village, offering a sense of old-world elegance.
Waihohonu Hut: An historic hut along the Tongariro Northern Circuit, built in 1903/04 and one of the oldest in the park.
The Gates of Mordor: An informal name for the landscape near Whakapapa used as a filming location for scenes of the black lands of Mordor.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Tackle the famous 19.4 km, one-way trek (7-9 hours) past active craters, vibrant Emerald Lakes, and steam vents. (Note: Book a shuttle service in advance and check the weather/volcanic risk).
Trek the Tongariro Northern Circuit: Embark on a multi-day Great Walk (2-4 days/43 km) that loops around Mount Ngāuruhoe, offering a deeper immersion into the volcanic wilderness.
Climb Mount Ruapehu via Sky Waka: Take the scenic gondola ride up Mt. Ruapehu to the Knoll Ridge Chalet (New Zealand’s highest café) for breathtaking panoramic views, even in summer.
Walk to Taranaki Falls: Enjoy a family-friendly 2-hour loop walk through mountain beech forest and alpine shrubland to a beautiful, cascading waterfall with views of the volcanoes.
Hike to Tama Lakes: Take an alternative to the Crossing (5-6 hours return) that follows the Taranaki Falls track before climbing to views of the Lower and Upper Tama Lakes, ancient explosion craters.
Find The Lord of the Rings Locations: Visit the filming locations for Mordor and Mount Doom, including the iconic cone of Mount Ngāuruhoe (Mount Doom) and the area around Mangawhero Falls (Ithilien and Gollum’s Pool).
Ski or Snowboard on an Active Volcano: In winter (June to October), hit the slopes at the Whakapapa or Turoa ski fields on Mount Ruapehu, offering terrain for all skill levels.
Cycle the Ohakune Old Coach Road: Hire a bike and cycle the 15 km historic track, passing through native bush and over the stunning Hapuawhenua Viaduct.
Go White Water Rafting on the Tongariro River: Experience a thrilling river adventure with Grade 3 rapids, navigating over 60 roller-coaster rapids through spectacular, unspoiled wilderness.
Visit the Tokaanu Thermal Pools: Relax and soothe tired muscles in the natural thermal mineral pools near the park, ranging from private hot pools to larger public ones.
Explore the Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s Pool): A very short 20-minute return walk to a small, picturesque waterfall featured in The Lord of the Rings.
Hike to Silica Rapids: A moderate 2.5-hour loop walk that takes you through the bush to unique creamy-white rapids colored by mineral deposits.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended: The easiest and most flexible way to explore the various access points and villages (Whakapapa, Ohakune, National Park Village) is with your own vehicle. Be prepared for potentially icy roads in winter and carry snow chains if necessary.
Shuttles are Essential for the Crossing: Due to parking restrictions (4-hour maximum) at the Tongariro Alpine Crossing trailheads (Mangatepopo and Ketetahi), you must book a shuttle service to transport you to the start and/or from the finish of the hike. Book well in advance.
Intercity Buses: National bus services (like Intercity) connect the park’s main villages (Ohakune, National Park Village, Turangi) to major cities like Auckland or Wellington, though this is less flexible than a car.
Park Villages as a Base: National Park Village, Whakapapa Village, and Ohakune serve as the main accommodation and activity hubs. Ohakune is the southern gateway, and National Park Village is the northern gateway.
Respect the Tapu (Sacred) Mountains: The mountains—Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe, and Tongariro—are deeply sacred to the local Māori iwi (tribe), Ngāti Tuwharetoa. They are considered living ancestors. Show respect by staying on marked trails, not disturbing natural features, and avoiding standing on the absolute summits.
Dual World Heritage Site: Tongariro was the first park in the world to be inscribed for both its natural (volcanic landscape, biodiversity) and cultural (spiritual significance to Māori) values.
Alpine Weather is Fickle: Mountain weather can change extremely rapidly, even in summer. Always carry multiple warm layers, waterproof clothing, and check the latest forecast (NIWA is a reliable source) and volcanic alerts before starting any hike.
Check Volcanic Risk: The park contains three active volcanoes. Check the GeoNet website or consult the Department of Conservation (DOC) Visitor Centre for the latest volcanic activity and safety advice before heading onto the trails.
Safety First on Hikes: For all major tracks, particularly the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, you should be well-prepared. Carry 2-3 liters of water per person (water on the track is not drinkable), plenty of high-energy snacks, a first aid kit, and let someone know your plans (“Plan My Walk” app is recommended).
Pack it in, Pack it out: There are no rubbish bins on the major tracks. You must carry all your trash, including food scraps and wrappers, out of the park. Be a “Tidy Kiwi.”
Embrace the Carrot Capital: The village of Ohakune is known as the “Carrot Capital of New Zealand.” Look out for the quirky giant carrot monument and local produce stalls selling farm-fresh vegetables.
Language: The local greeting is “Kia Ora” (Māori for hello/be well). English is the main language, but learning a few basic Māori words will be appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Schnapps Bar [$20-$40] – A true local favourite in National Park Village, known for its warm, rustic atmosphere, open fire, and hearty alpine meals like the famous vegetarian nachos (a local legend) and their Mountain Burger.
Tussock Bar & Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located near the Chateau in Whakapapa Village, this spot offers a more reasonably priced dining experience than the hotel’s formal option, with generous portions of delicious food and exceptional, friendly service.
The Powderkeg Restaurant & Bar [$25-$45] – An Ohakune icon with a lively après-ski atmosphere in winter, serving generous, classic pub meals and pizzas in a rustic alpine setting.
The Cypress Tree Restaurant & Bar [$25-$45] – Popular with both locals and tourists in Ohakune, offering a comprehensive dinner menu with roaring fires, a view of Mt Ruapehu, and a menu of local craft beers and wines.
Kings Bar & Restaurant [$25-$45] – A highly-rated spot in Ohakune known for its seasonal menu, mouth-watering menu options, local brews on tap (including Ruapehu Brewing Co.), and an expansive deck with great mountain views.
Spiral Restaurant & Bar [$25-$45] – Located in The Park Hotel in National Park Village, this place is full of character, named after the historic Raurimu railway spiral, and prides itself on affordable, tasty, quality food to fill up after a day outdoors.
Pipers Lodge Restaurant and Bar [$20-$35] – A cozy, on-site bar and restaurant at Pipers Lodge in National Park Village, offering classic meals like fish ‘n’ chips and aiming for a comfortable blend of local and international cuisines.
Ohakune Tavern [$20-$35] – A classic, no-frills pub experience in Ohakune, where you can expect friendly service, a busy vibe, and homely, well-portioned food like ribs and classic pub grub.
Frank’s Eatery & Bar [$20-$40] – A solid option in Ohakune for a casual meal, known for its good food and laid-back atmosphere, often with large portion sizes.
Mountain Rocks Cafe & Bar [$20-$35] – Located in Ohakune, offering a relaxed vibe and a menu of cafe favorites and bar snacks, perfect for unwinding.
LKNZ Lodge & Cafe [$15-$30] – Located in Ohakune, this cafe at the lodge provides a welcoming spot for a quick bite or casual meal with a menu that caters to travelers and adventurers.
The Hungry Rush [$15-$25] – A quick and reliable option in Ohakune for those needing a casual, tasty meal on the go.
Mountain Kebabs [$15-$25] – A great, affordable option in Ohakune for a quick, filling meal that’s perfect after a day of physical activity.
Big Mountain Burgers [$15-$25] – Specializing in gourmet burgers, this spot in Ohakune is perfect for a satisfying and substantial meal.
The Kitchen [$15-$30] – A casual dining option in Ohakune that focuses on wholesome, simple food.
Powderhorn Chateau Restaurant [$40-$70] – While often higher-priced, this Ohakune hotel restaurant is known for its elegant Pacific Rim cuisine in a sophisticated setting, sometimes offering a set menu.
Erua Lodge Bar & Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located just outside National Park Village, offering a menu of hearty, comforting meals in a welcoming lodge environment.
Ma & Mel’s Coffee Cart [$10-$20] – A tiny spot in Whakapapa Village with a huge reputation for the best coffee on the mountain, serving quality brews, tasty toasties, and baked treats—an essential stop before the trails.
Station Cafe [$15-$25] – Situated in National Park Village’s restored historic railway station, offering a great breakfast and lunch menu with traditional homemade baking and smooth Atomic coffee in a warm, relaxing ambiance.
Utopia Cafe [$15-$25] – A highly-rated cafe in Ohakune known for its lovely ambiance, cozy fire, and a menu featuring mostly vegetarian dishes and small plates, all with generous portions.
Honeycomb Kitchen [$15-$25] – A cafe in Ohakune that focuses on fresh, contemporary food, offering a refreshing and healthy option for breakfast or lunch.
Pātaka Café [$10-$20] – Located at Whakapapa, offering a mix of grab ‘n’ go cabinet food like sandwiches, salads, and Dad’s Pies, as well as hot dishes like curries and nachos for a quick mountain refuel.
Happy Valley Bistro [$10-$20] – Found alongside the Happy Valley beginners area at Whakapapa, offering healthy and fast options like breakfast muffins, wraps, pizzas, and roti rolls.
Lorenz’s Bar and Café [$15-$30] – Located in the Whakapapa plaza, it’s a great place to grab breakfast and your morning coffee, also serving burgers, soups, and salads throughout the day.
West Ridge Café [$10-$20] – A ski-in/ski-out “shack” at Whakapapa, offering grab ‘n’ go snacks for a quick stop without leaving the slopes.
Coffee Corner [$5-$15] – Located in the Knoll Ridge Chalet, this is a dedicated spot for a caffeinated hit and cabinet food options.
Knoll Ridge Chalet – Pinnacles’ Cafe [$25-$50] – New Zealand’s highest dining experience, perched at 2,020m above sea level at the top of the Sky Waka Gondola at Whakapapa. It offers contemporary cuisine with breathtaking views of the Pinnacles and Central Plateau.
Back Bar (Knoll Ridge Chalet) [$15-$30] – A great spot for an afternoon beverage on the sun-soaked deck of the Knoll Ridge Chalet, with incredible views out to the Pinnacles range and Central Plateau.
Osteria Ohakune [$30-$60] – A quality Italian restaurant in Ohakune that blends rustic, traditional recipes with modern elements, focusing on fresh, tasty, and locally sourced Italian cuisine.
Rice Bar & Food [$20-$40] – For a break from the classic pub fare in Ohakune, this restaurant serves up fresh, Asian-inspired dishes with bold flavours and a casual, modern atmosphere.
Four Peaks Alley [$15-$30] – Located under the Knoll Ridge Chalet, this eatery offers a selection of “street style” food for a casual and different option on the mountain.
Tiger Palace [$20-$40] – An Indian restaurant in Ohakune, offering a different flavour profile with traditional curries and Indian favorites.
La Pizzeria [$20-$35] – A reliable spot in Ohakune for a classic pizza, perfect for a casual group dinner.
The Fish and Chip Shop (Various) [$15-$25] – Found in the gateway villages like National Park Village or Ohakune, these local takeaway spots are quintessential Kiwi dining for a quick, affordable, and comforting meal.
The Cyprus Tree Takeaways [$15-$25] – In addition to the main restaurant, The Cyprus Tree in Ohakune offers a takeaway service for convenience.
Ohakune Turoa [$15-$30] – A cafe/restaurant in Ohakune that caters to the ski crowd, offering quick meals and coffee.
Food with Altitude – Catering [Price Varies] – A local catering service often used for large groups and events around the park, offering extensive experience and familiarity with local lodges.
Blue Hill Cafe (Owhango) [$15-$30] – Located in the nearby town of Owhango, this cafe is a solid local option, sometimes used for catering services in the area.
Self-Catering Options (Superettes) [$10-$20 per meal] – The superettes and local stores in National Park Village and Ohakune are essential for picking up supplies for packed lunches or self-catering, which many hikers choose to do.
Pre-Ordered Packed Lunches [Included in Tour/Hotel Package] – Many local lodges and tour operators (like Kings in Ohakune) offer pre-ordered packed lunches, often a necessity for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
The Grand Cafe (Chateau Tongariro) [$30-$50] – A mid-range dining option within the historic Chateau (check current status), serving more casual meals, including buffet breakfasts and high tea.
Tongariro Junction Catering [Price Varies] – While primarily a venue, they can assist with locating or booking local caterers in the Turangi area for events near the northern end of the park.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Powderkeg Restaurant & Bar: An Ohakune icon located in the Powderhorn Chateau. Famous for its lively, rustic alpine atmosphere, massive log fires, and generous pub meals, making it the premier spot for après-ski action.
Schnapps Bar: The perfect place to relax after a day on the mountain, located in National Park Village. It offers panoramic views of the central plateau mountains, an open fire, great food, and often hosts live bands and games nights during the winter.
National Park Hotel Pub: A quaint, old-school, and iconic pub in National Park Village. It’s known as the local watering hole with a relaxing atmosphere, a pool table, arcade games, and frequent happy hour deals, making it an absolute must-see after the Tongariro Crossing.
Kings Ohakune – Bar, Restaurant & Events: Situated in the Junction area of Ohakune, this historic hotel institution is great for a delicious meal, featuring a fantastic view of the mountain from its large deck. It proudly serves local Ruapehu Brewing Co. beers on tap and features the largest screen in town for sporting events.
The Tussock Bar & Restaurant: A classic pub found in Whakapapa Village (Skotel Alpine Resort) with a casual, pub-style environment. Think rugby, a pool table, karaoke, and a great open fire, offering solid pub food and a friendly welcome after a day on the slopes.
The Chateau Tongariro T-Bar & Pihanga Café: Located in the basement of the grand Bayview Chateau Tongariro in Whakapapa Village. This bistro-style restaurant and bar is ideal for excellent, imaginative food and a refined drink in a historic and elegant setting.
Ohakune Tavern (Ohakune Bar & Eatery): Located on Clyde Street in Ohakune, this spot provides a relaxed and cozy atmosphere with two fireplaces and a large screen for sporting events. It’s a great, central gathering place for a pint and good bistro food.
Ohakune Club: A community-oriented club in the heart of Ohakune on Goldfinch Street. It offers a laid-back spot to unwind with traditional pub meals and a good variety of beverages, catering to sports enthusiasts with screenings of major games.
The Mountain Rocks Cafe & Bar: Found in Ohakune, this spot is better known as a cozy cafe but transforms into a friendly bar in the evenings, offering a comfortable, relaxed environment for a quiet drink after a long day.
The Cypress Tree Restaurant & Bar: A popular dining and social spot in Ohakune offering hearty meals and a warm atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed dinner and drinks.
Tussock Tavern: Located in Ohakune, this is a solid choice for a casual drink, known for its friendly service and great for recounting the day’s adventures.
Raetihi Cosmopolitan Club (The Cossie Club): A short drive from Ohakune in Raetihi, this club fosters sincere friendship and camaraderie, welcoming strangers who often leave as friends after a drink or two.
The Park Hotel Ruapehu Bar: Located in National Park Village, this hotel bar is a great spot to relax in front of the roaring log fire after using the outdoor hot tubs, offering comfort food and a warm, casual atmosphere.
The Terrace Restaurant & Bar: Another option within the Skotel Alpine Resort in Whakapapa Village, offering a scenic spot for a drink and dinner.
Tongariro Lodge Bar: Found outside the park near Tūrangi, this is a more premium venue, known for fine dining and a sophisticated bar setting, ideal if you are based on the northern side of the park.
Turangi Bridge Motel, Bar & Restaurant: A convenient spot in Tūrangi, offering a mix of comfort and local hospitality, suitable for a casual drink.
Powderkeg Restaurant & Bar: While technically a bar and restaurant, the Powderkeg in Ohakune transforms into the most energetic venue during the winter ski season, with music, dancing, and a lively ‘club’ atmosphere that lasts well into the night. It is the closest thing to a full-blown club in the area.
Kings Ohakune – Bar, Restaurant & Events: Often hosts live music and events, especially during the peak season, which can create a vibrant, party-like atmosphere in the Junction area of Ohakune.
Schnapps Bar: With live bands and games nights in the winter, this venue in National Park Village has the atmosphere of a high-energy party pub, especially after a great day of skiing or hiking.
Ohakune Tavern (Ohakune Bar & Eatery): Stays open until 1 am, making it one of the last places open in Ohakune and a key late-night socializing spot, effectively serving as a club for the local and visitor crowd.
The Tussock Bar & Restaurant: The venue’s focus on karaoke singing and music videos on an oversized screen, particularly in Whakapapa Village, often creates a lively, late-night party feel, especially on weekends.
Tongariro Crossing Lodge Bar: Located in the wider area, this lodge bar often provides a social hub for hikers, with a communal and lively atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers and having a late drink.
The National Park Hotel Pub: Its “till late” hours and R18 policy, along with its friendly local staff in National Park Village, make it the go-to for a final late drink and a truly local party vibe.
Paddy’s Bar (Ohakune): A well-known spot in the Ohakune area (often mentioned as a seasonal/local favorite) that contributes to the town’s lively after-hours reputation, particularly during the winter months.
Ruapehu Brewing Co. Taproom (Ohakune): While a brewery, its popularity and relaxed atmosphere make it a central gathering point that can become quite lively, providing a modern alternative to the classic pub.