[2024 Waiouru Military Area Attraction] Travel Guide for Tongariro National Park (Updated Dec)

What is Tongariro

Tongariro is actually the oldest national park in New Zealand, and it was only the 6th in the world to be established.It was created in 1887 and now holds dual world heritage status, recognizing both its significance in Maori culture and religion, as well as its diverse and dramatic volcanic landscape. The park covers 80,000 hectares of land, which is 796 square kilometers (307 square miles).However, you’ll find glaciers, ancient lava flows, rivers, cascading waterfalls, alpine lakes, and even ski fields here.This striking and widely varied landscape is why Tongariro National Park was chosen as a filming location for several of the Lord of the Rings movies. In fact, Mount Ngauruhoe was actually used for Mount Doom in the film (with some digital alterations, of course). Meanwhile, among other locations, Mount Ruapehu was the setting for Emyn Muil and two waterfalls were used for Gollum’s Pool. New Zealand is celebrated for its natural beauty, adventurous outdoor activities, and Maori culture – you’ll find all that (and much more!) when you visit Tongariro National Park.#awesomepic #couplestrip #mytripvlog #nationalpark #bucketlistreboot #2023travelwish #2023travelwish #newzealand #newzealandtravel #trekking

The Unforgettable Tongariro Alpine Crossing!

If you’re feeling adventurous and looking for the best thing to do on North Island, New Zealand, then the Mount Tongariro National Park is waiting for you! Within the National Park, there are several routes to take, but the most popular one is the Day Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing! With an average of 8 hours to complete the hike, it’s definitely not a stroll in a park, especially for a person like me who has zero experience in hiking and Low/moderate fitness level. If you are someone like me, a suggestion is to reach early and take it slow, so you can hike at a comfortable pace and not ending it off too late! There are several vantage point such as Emerald Lake and Red Crater, but words can never describe how phenomenal the whole place look! If you’re a lord of the ring fan, you can even catch “Mount Doom” here as it was shot with one of the mountain here! A true amazing experience that everyone has to try at least once in their lifetime! Getting here: From my experience, it’s best to look in their official website for the most updated information as their carpark and bus schedules do change from time to time! #nationalpark #hiking #scenicspotguide #newzealand #travelinspiration

Moments at Tongariro National Park, NZ

Tongariro is New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual World Heritage area. This status recognises the park's important Māori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features. Tongariro National Park is one of three World Heritage sites in New Zealand. The other two are Te Wahipounamu in the South Island, and the Sub Antarctic Islands. Te Wahipounamu is a massive area covering the south west of the South Island, and containing Fiordland, Westland, Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Aspiring National Parks. The mountains at the heart of the park have cultural and spiritual significance to Ngāti Tuwharetoa and symbolise the spiritual links between this community and their environment. Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro is the guardian hapū (sub-tribe) of Ngāti Tuwharetoa as the hau kāinga (true people of the homeland) for the Tongariro territory. Their continued existence in this environment ensures the cultural, spiritual and environmental values are protected and shared with all those that encounter this dynamic landscape. The park has active volcanoes, a diverse range of ecosystems and some remarkable landscapes - each deeply enriched with stories of the hau kāinga and the significance to their people. #travelinspiration #unforgettableexperiences #scenicspotguide #couplestrip #awesomepic #historicculture #beautifulsunsets #naturalwonders #hiking #nationalpark #lakes #travelinspiration#unforgettableexperiences#scenicspotguide#awesomepic#couplestrip#historicculture#beautifulsunsets#bestislandtraveltowns#naturalwonders#hiking#nationalpark#lakes

Tongariro National Park

#newzealand

Mount Ruapehu

Mount Ruapehu, located in the central North Island of New Zealand, is the largest active volcano in the country and one of its most popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Standing at 2,797 meters (9,177 feet), it’s the highest peak in the North Island and is part of the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, skiing resorts, and scenic hiking trails, Mount Ruapehu is a hub for year-round adventure. Mount Ruapehu is an active stratovolcano that last erupted in 2007. Its summit houses a crater lake known as Te Wai ā-moe, which periodically warms up due to volcanic activity. When not in a state of eruption, the lake is accessible for guided tours and provides a stunning, otherworldly view with its milky, turquoise waters surrounded by volcanic rock. In the summer, Mount Ruapehu is a popular destination for climbers. Its rugged terrain and volcanic features provide an exciting challenge for mountaineers. Several routes lead to the summit, offering views of the North Island and, on a clear day, the chance to see the surrounding volcanoes, Mount Taranaki, and even the distant Lake Taupo. Mount Ruapehu’s combination of volcanic activity, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation makes it one of New Zealand’s most exciting and diverse natural attractions. Whether you’re there for skiing, hiking, or simply soaking in the stunning views, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Tongariro: Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings.

Mount Doom is where the hobbits threw the One Ring. The trail is 19.4 kilometers long (possibly longer). On the day of the hike, temperatures ranged from 4°C to -7°C. It rained the day before, and there was snow on the summit. The trail may not always be open the next day. Check with the counter at 7 AM to see if the shuttle bus is running. Since we only stayed one night, we decided to go regardless. Luckily, we didn't book the shuttle bus. Driving ourselves for 15 minutes cost 1100 per person, saving 4400 for food. 😆 The parking lot has a maximum stay of four hours. If you plan to reach the summit, the round trip will definitely exceed this time, so booking the shuttle bus is necessary. When we returned to the parking lot and saw our car, we were relieved it wasn't locked or ticketed. We felt immense gratitude at that moment. Starting the hike felt like embarking on the quest from The Lord of the Rings. The surroundings were dry yellow grass due to the volcanic activity, with black and rust-red stones and soil. From the initial desolation to the misty and snowy plains, then icy paths leading to the snowy summit, the changing scenery in the volcanic terrain was truly a marvel of nature.

The highlight of my life!! NZ Tongariro crossing

The tongariro crossing was honestly incredible. You get the chance to hike up an active volcano, It was around a 10 hour hike. The hike is not easy but the views you have along the way are breathtaking and 100% worth it. Once you get to the top you realise what you have achieved and everything feels so surreal! #newzealand #newzealandtravel #Hiking #Volcano #Tongarirocrossing #Travel

You must see Tongariro in New Zealand at least once

Finally achieved a big dream: Complete Tongariro Alpine Crossing! The total length is 19.4km, about 22km in total, completed in 7.5h! I have seen too many azure seas and lush mountains in Auckland, it's time to see the famous Tongariro National Park to see the volcanoes. Actually, for me who usually do physical work and occasionally exercise, the overall difficulty is not particularly large, but it tests patience. After climbing to the top and seeing the emerald lake, there is nearly two hours of mountain road looking at the winding downhill road of Lake Taupo, which is very torturous to the knee, so you can consider running downhill appropriately.

Mount "DOOM" In Its Glory | Tongariro

#tripblazers Tongariro National Park is not only New Zealand's oldest national park but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for both its natural and cultural significance. The park is dominated by three active volcanoes – Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe (famously known as Mount Doom from "The Lord of the Rings" movies), and Mount Ruapehu. The volcanic terrain includes craters, lava flows, and diverse geological formations. Considered one of the best day hikes in the world, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging 19.4-kilometer trek that takes you through volcanic landscapes, past emerald lakes, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Tongariro National Park holds great importance in Māori culture. The mountains within the park are considered sacred, and there are cultural sites and legends associated with the region. Like, Ngatoroirangi and the Creation of the Central Plateau: Ngatoroirangi, a prominent figure in Māori mythology, is credited with bringing fire to the region. During his journey, he ascended Mount Tongariro and, facing bitter cold, called upon the fire deity Auahitūroa. In response, the mountain erupted, providing warmth to Ngatoroirangi. As a result of the volcanic activity, the landscape of the central North Island, including the formation of craters and lakes, is said to have been shaped. Another one says that the mountains of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu are said to represent a love triangle in Māori mythology. Tongariro, the tallest of the three, fell in love with Pihanga, a smaller mountain located to the northwest. Ngauruhoe, however, also desired Pihanga. The mountains engaged in a great battle, with eruptions and spewing ash symbolizing their conflicts. In the end, Tongariro won Pihanga's heart, and today, the three mountains stand as a testament to this legendary love story. Despite the harsh volcanic environment, the park supports a variety of plant and animal life. The lower slopes feature beech forests, and alpine plants thrive in the higher elevations. Unique bird species, such as the rare blue duck (whio), inhabit the park. Tips and Tricks ⁉️ 🌦️Weather can change rapidly in the the National Park. Usually you will be warned about potential risks and your hike will be permitted only if the weather forecast will be deemed safe. However if the unforseen happens and you're left with a choice to turn back or to push forward, we suggest on doing former. Believe us when we say, the results can be catastrophic. 🥪20km hike is not a joke. Prepare well. Pack food, snacks, enough of water to support yourself through the day. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you find yourself in a pinch. #SpinTheWorld #localguides #wecreate #newzealandtravel

Went tramping to Tama Lakes. It was so spectacular views. Definitely will be back here. 100 recommended.#newzealand

The Tongariro volcano group, which is often seen in the Lord of the Rings, is a totem of the local Maori, a natural heritage of the world. It includes a number of trails that run from a 20-kilometer day to more than 70 km. One day through the trail through the smoky crater, multiple colored lakes overlooking the highest peak of the North Island, and is considered to be New Zealand's most exciting day walk. However, if there is plenty of time, it can also withstand the climatically ridiculous hikers. It is worthwhile to spend a few days on the ring line. Over the towering ridges, meet the blue lake, and plunge into the rushing waterfall. The jungle of the stream, and finally back to the starting point, all the exhaustion is relieved. For the ring walkers, the village of wakapapa is a suitable pre-departure accommodation in the Tongariro National Park and the completion of the loop.

New Zealand's Tongariro National Park is a rare world heritage of nature and culture. It is located on the south side of Rotorua and the Taupo geothermal area in the heart of the North Island. It has spectacular volcanic groups and indigenous Maori culture. Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand's top ten hiking trails. If you really can't rush to challenge the volcanic road of nearly 20 kilometers, you can try a few kilometers of small hiking routes around, such as the waterfall line we walked. Although New Zealand is already in the midsummer, the mountain still retains a little snow, so it is a reward for visitors coming from afar.