CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND
GREAT LAKE WALKWAY 65
This combined walking and cycling trail along the shores of Lake Taupō offers picturesque lake and mountain views with plenty of spots for swims, picnics and playground fun.
TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT 7
The Tongariro National Park provides the backdrop for your alpine adventure with a landscape of stark contrasts and amazing views at every turn.
Where is it? Located in the Central North Island, the Tongariro National Park is the closest national park to Auckland. It’s easily accessed from Ōhakune, Tūrangi, Taupō and SH 1. The circular Great Walk starts near Whakapapa Village.
Where is it? Start at Taupō Boat Harbour, at the intersection of Redoubt St and Ferry Rd or set off from the other end at Five Mile Recreation Reserve.
Terrain Moderate-to-high level of fitness and clothing suitable for alpine conditions required.
Terrain The easy undulating path is mostly paved, making it perfect for strollers, wheelchairs and bikes.
No dogs
TRACK OVERVIEW Also known as The Lion’s Walk, the Great Lake Walkway sets off from the Taupō Boat Harbour, heading in the direction of the Three Mile Boat Ramp. This is a relaxed and scenic track for all ages, and as you head further out of town, the world takes on a most tranquil and picturesque quality and features show-stopping views of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe. With several places along the way to stop for swims, picnics and ice creams, the walk concludes at Five Mile Bay Recreation Reserve.
3-4 days; 43km Moderate-high fitness required Can be steep at times Season: Late Oct to late Apr Mt Ngāuruhoe © Getty Images
TRACK OVERVIEW Dogs are permitted 2hr one way; 10km one way Basic fitness required Easy walking
Tongariro Northern Circuit is a Great Walk and a loop track that can be walked in either direction. The track is well marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep, rough or muddy. Starting at Whakapapa Village, hike to the Mangatepopo Valley. See Pukekaikiore, one of the older vents of the Tongariro Complex of explosion craters, lava flows, and volcanic cones. On the second day, hike through the valley and then climb up to the Red Crater (1868m) before
descending to the Emerald Lakes and down into the Oturere Valley. The next day follow the track along the foothills of Ngāuruhoe. After crossing the Waihōhonu Stream, continue through beech-forested valley, then climb over the ridge to reach Waihōhonu Hut in the next valley. On the last day, hike alongside the Waihōhonu Stream and up to the Tama Saddle. Take an optional side trip to Tama Lakes, then continue to Whakapapa Village.
Cycling the Old Coach Rd near Ohakune © Visit Ruapehu
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Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park
A beautiful bush setting with the mountain stream flowing freely along the Park offering a truly tranquil camping experience.
0800 521 003 5 Moore Street, Ohakune top10.co.nz
Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites BBQ Area • Playground • WiFi • Spa Bath • Spa Pool • Games room • Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle pick up from Park