Tongariro Region

Around the central plateau with majestic landscapes lies Tongariro region of New Zealand. Tongariro is a magnificent region with snow capped volcanic peaks, lush forest and fast flowing mighty rivers. Tongariro region has the most popular and unspoilt landscape in New Zealand.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track passes through some of the spectacular volcanic terrain. Tourists to Tongariro region can actually experience active volcanoes, a rare phenomena, yet common to this region.

Due to altitude, Tongariro region has extreme weather conditions throughout the year. It is extremely hot during summers and snow blanked in winters. Many cities in central plateau like Whakapapa and Ohakune experience snow that can linger on till spring season. It is advisable to wear good walking boots, with warm layers of clothing and keep a compass and maps in handy while on excursion in Tongariro region.

Lake Taupo, located in the center of Tongariro region is the largest and most popular volcanic terrain of New Zealand. Lake Taupo is formed when a volcanic blast erupted some 1800 years ago. Taupo is the most popular tourist’s destination in Tongariro region. The city of Taupo has some great choice of restaurants, bars and cafés. Taupo offers many adrenaline pumping activities like: bungy jumping, white water rafting, jet boating and quad biking to name a few.

Tongariro National Park is the real pride of Tongariro region. The region has derived its name from this oldest and very first National Park of New Zealand. It was established in 1887, and has a dual World Heritage area. The name Tongariro originally covered the three mountains of the park; Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. Tongariro is considered to be one of the most spectacular parks in the world. The mighty active volcanoes, walking routes, skiing, tramping and specifically Tongariro Crossing and Tongariro Circuit makes it the most visited destination of central plateau. This renowned park has also made appearance in the celebrated ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

Mount Tongariro is yet another tourist attraction in Tongariro. It still has an active volcano and a number of colored lakes and hot springs dotting its uneven summit.

The Tongariro Crossing is the finest one day walk in New Zealand. The Tongariro Crossing covers the most spectacular scenery of New Zealand. It is a true hiking adventure and covers 17 kilometers one way distance in 7-8 hours. Tourists experience couple of steep spots, but most of the track is not difficult. You can enjoy walks through low lying forests, alpine herb fields, tussock and unusual rocks.