CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

Further information:
Walks in and
Tongariro National Park around Tongariro
National Park
Visitor Centre
State Highway 48
Whakapapa Village
PO Box 71029
Mt Ruapehu 3951
PHONE: 07 892 3729
EMAIL: [email protected]
www.doc.govt.nz

Published by:
Department of Conservation
Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
PO Box 71029
Whakapapa Village,
Mount Ruapehu 3951
New Zealand
December 2020

Editing and design:

Te Rōpū Auaha, Te Papa Atawhai
DOC Creative Services

Front cover:
Tongariro Northern Circuit
Photo: DOC/90 Seconds

This publication is produced

using paper sourced from
well-managed, renewable
and legally logged forests.
R126857
Getting there Contents
This 78,618 ha park, located in the central North Tongariro National Park World Heritage Area
Island, is bordered by State Highway 1, 49, 4 and The Sacred Tuku 1887. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
47. The nearest towns are Turangi, National Park Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
and Ohakune. The small village of Whakapapa is Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
located within the park.
Know before you go. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The main trunk railway runs through National Park Camping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
and Ohakune townships. Regular bus services operate Huts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
to Ohakune, National Park and Turangi. Plan and prepare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Turangi Tracks and walks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4 Whakapapa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
47
46 Walks (less than 3 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Day tramps (3–8 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Tongariro
National Park Ohakune. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Visitor Centre Walks (less than 3 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
National Cycle Trail: Ruapehu–Whanganui Trails. . . . . . . . . 25
1 Day tramps (3–8 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Raetihi Ohakune On and near Mt Tongariro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
25km 49 Waiouru Walks (less than 3 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Day tramps (3–8 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Further afield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Walks (less than 3 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Day tramps (3–8 hours). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Multi-day tramping tracks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Round the Mountain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Tongariro Northern Circuit – Great Walk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Backcountry travel in Tongariro National Park. . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Tongariro’s unique flora and fauna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Protecting our natural heritage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Check before you light a fire –
a ban may be in place
Maps
Whakapapa enlargement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Ohakune enlargement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Ruapehu-Whanganui Trails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Tongariro National Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fold-out
back cover

Photo: Conrad Smith

falcon/kārearea.
New Zealand
 For your safety Tongariro
National Park
Carry the following topographical maps with you. The maps in this
brochure are a guide only and should not be used for navigation.
The appropriate NZTopo50 See also:
series maps for these trips are: • Tongariro Alpine World Heritage
• BJ34 Mt Ruapehu
• BH34 Raurimu
Crossing brochure
• Tongariro Northern Circuit Area
• BH35 Tūrangi Great Walk brochure
• BJ35 Waiouru. The Sacred Tuku 1887
www.doc.govt.nz/tongariro Horonuku Te Heuheu Tūkino IV,
www.doc.govt.nz/tongariroalpinecrossing (Paramount Chief), Matuaahu Te
www.doc.govt.nz/tongarironortherncircuit Wharerangi and other rangatira
Tell someone before you go of Ngāti Tūwharetoa, one of the
Safety is your responsibility so remember to leave details tribes who have mana whenua
of your trip (return date and time, planned route, party (occupational authority) over the
member names and vehicle licence plates) with a trusted land in this region, extended the
contact, and don’t forget to let them know when you return. kaitiakitanga (custodianship) of
Information on the Outdoor Intentions System can be found at the peaks of Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe
www.adventuresmart.org.nz. Also visit www.doc.govt.nz
and part of the peak of Ruapehu
‘Know before you go’ for important safety information about
to the people of New Zealand
the Tongariro National Park.
23 September 1887. Described
Remember to fill in hut books during your trip, even if you
as a ‘Tuku’ (an offer of shared
do not stay in the hut. They can assist in search and rescue
kaitiakitanga), iwi would, through a
operations, and may help save your life.
partnership with the Crown, ensure
 emember, if you are not experienced and
R the landscape and cultural values of
equipped for alpine hiking, we recommend that the North Island mountains would
you choose a track below the bushline where alpine be protected for all time.
experience is not required, or go with a guide.
Iwi (Māori tribes) had always held
To book a guide contact your nearest i-SITE, or go to land on a communal basis.
www.visitruapehu.com or www.greatlaketaupo.com. Horonuku, Matuaahu and the
other rangatira did not want to
see the sacred mountains of their
people divided into blocks and
sold to land-seeking settlers. Loss
of this land would mean loss of
the sacred volcanoes and a loss of
Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

mana (status, prestige, integrity) for

Photo: Graeme Murray

Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Rangi and

Whanganui Iwi who all have mana
whenua of the mountains.

1
An Act of Parliament formally established Tongariro
National Park in 1894 and it was gazetted as such Introduction
in 1907. The original tuku area of 2360 hectares
has been increased over the years by government National Parks represent glimpses of our
procurement of surrounding land to create a national
environment as it once was, and also form
park of 78,618 hectares.
cultural icons connecting people to the land.
Due to the insight of Horonuku, Matuaahu and other
The varying landscape of Tongariro National
Ngāti Tūwharetoa rangatira, Tongariro National Park
was the first national park in New Zealand and the fifth Park features herbfields, forests, lakes, streams
in the world. and desert-like areas, as well as dramatic terrain
While the mountains have been protected, and are formed by volcanic activity. The landforms,
recognised as a World Heritage site, the mana whenua volcanoes and ecosystems of Tongariro National
feel the Tongariro National Park Act 1894 has not Park are now recognised as having outstanding
adequately recognised the intent of the Tuku as an
international significance and have been
expression of shared kaitiakitanga and management of
the mountains. The mana whenua would like to restore
awarded UNESCO dual World Heritage status
the partnership intended by the 1887 Tuku by making for natural and cultural values.
a new partnership arrangement for the National Park.
Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Call in to the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre,
situated in Whakapapa Village, and meet DOC rangers
who have first-hand, in-depth local knowledge about
conservation places and activities. The centre is open
every day (except for Christmas day) from 8 am to 5 pm
during the summer season, and 8 am to 4.30 pm during the
winter season. Hut tickets, hut passes and topographical
If our mountains of Tongariro are included in the maps are available for sale as well as books, souvenirs,
blocks passed through the court in the ordinary way, clothing and a selection of outdoor safety items. A foyer
what will become of them? They will be cut up and is open 24 hours for access to a public telephone, weather
sold, a piece going to one Pākeha and a piece to and avalanche reports, and track information.
another. They will become of no account, for the Tel: (07) 892 3729 Email: [email protected]
tapu will be gone.
Tongariro is my ancestor, my tūpuna, it is my head; Information on the park is also available
from the i-SITES in:
my mana centres around Tongariro.
Ohakune (06) 385 8427
You know how my name and history are associated Taumarunui (07) 895 7494
with Tongariro, I cannot consent to the court passing Tūrangi (07) 386 8999
these mountains through in the ordinary way. Taupō (07) 376 0027
After I am dead, what will be their fate?

Te Heuheu Tūkino IV, 1885

2 3
Know before you go
Weather Lahar hazards on Mount Ruapehu
The climate of Tongariro National Park is Mount Ruapehu is an active volcano. An eruption may
highly unpredictable and changes quickly. generate lahars (volcanic floods and mudflows) in major
High levels of rain and very cold temperatures are valleys and in the Whakapapa Ski Area. Hikers and
common, and snow is possible at any time of the year. skiers should familiarise themselves with known lahar
Check the latest weather forecast and track conditions paths and be prepared to move out of valleys should an
before starting out on any hikes – always be prepared for eruption occur.
bad weather.
For the latest weather forecast, check at the Tongariro
National Park Visitor Centre or visit www.metservice. 1975 Ngāuruhoe eruption
Incandescent lava blocks, some
com/mountain/tongariro-national-park. the size of small cars, leave
vapour trails in the sky. Some of
River crossings the heavier material begins to
drop, causing fluid pyroclastic
Heavy rain will cause increased water flow flows (glowing avalanches of
in all streams and rivers in the park. At fragmented rock) travelling
these times, unbridged rivers may become difficult 2 km from the crater down the
or impossible to cross, particularly those on the Mangatepopo valley.
longer walks such as the Round the Mountain and
Whakapapaiti Valley tracks. If you come across a
swollen river, do not cross it. Turn back or stop and wait
for the river to subside.

Volcanic hazards
One of the main reasons Tongariro National
Park is considered a special area is because
of its volcanic features. Although volcanic events are
often spectacular to view at a safe distance, there can
be considerable risk for those who venture close to the
active volcanoes.
Visitors should be aware that volcanic activity is

Mount Ngāuruhoe eruption. Photo: DOC

possible in the area at any time with little or no warning.
Anyone intending to hike or climb on the upper slopes
of the volcanoes should first check the current volcanic
status and safety information for the area. During times
of volcanic activity, hikers and skiers should move away
from the crater and onto high ground to avoid flying
rocks, lahars and blasts.
Check Geonet for volcanic status:
www.geonet.org.nz/volcano.

4 5
 Snow and avalanches bringing pets to Whakapapa or Turoa ski fields, or into
Throughout the year tracks in the park may be Whakapapa Village. To give greater protection to native
affected by snow and ice. In these conditions wildlife please leave your pets at home.
hikes may take longer than the posted track times. Be
aware of avalanche danger after heavy snowfalls. Before Drones
you set out, check information on the current snow No unauthorised drones are allowed within the
stability at the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre or Tongariro National Park.
visit www.avalanche.net.nz/region/1. Treat snow slopes Drones can:
in the lee (downwind) aspect of recent winds and ice • interfere with helicopters for search and rescue, fire and
slopes as high hazard areas. operational needs
• disturb our native birds and our visitors.
Throughout winter, ice axes and crampons (and the
experience to use them) are required for tracks in the For further information, visit www.doc.govt.nz/drones.
alpine areas of the park. Visitors must be able to make
their own on-site assessments of weather, route and Rubbish and recycling
avalanche conditions, and should carry an avalanche There is a ‘pack-it-in, pack-it-out’ policy within
transceiver, probe and shovel if venturing into snow- the park. Please carry out all your rubbish. There
covered areas. is a recycling and rubbish transfer station in Whakapapa
Village, 300 metres above the Visitor Centre.
It is recommended that visitors who are not equipped for
or experienced in alpine conditions go with a guide.
Vehicles
Do not leave valuables in parked cars and if
Water possible arrange alternative transport to and
Tongariro National Park is a volcanic zone
from tracks. Carry important documents like passports
and high mineral concentrations are present
and credit cards with you. Leaving vehicles parked overnight
in many of its waterways. Giardia may be present in
in more isolated car parks is not recommended.
some streams in the park. We recommend you boil all
drinking water (for at least 3 min). Water from the upper
Mangatepopo Stream, Emerald Lakes and Ketetahi
Mountain biking
Mountain biking is permitted in Tongariro
Springs is not suitable for drinking due to its high
National Park on formed roads, ie Bruce Road,
mineral content. In times of volcanic activity, water tanks
Ohakune Mountain Road, Tūkino Road, Mangatepopo
at huts may be disconnected to avoid ash contamination.
Road, the Ohakune Old Coach Road and Ruapehu–
Streams and rivers could also become contaminated.
Whanganui Trails.
Visitors should carry their own water supply.
Mountain biking is permitted in adjacent Rangataua
For cultural and health reasons, swimming is not advised
Conservation Area on the southern boundary of
in many of the lakes, streams and rivers of the park.
Tongariro National Park east of Ohakune. Erua and
Check with DOC staff for further information.
Tongariro Forest Conservation Areas are also good
locations for mountain biking, hunting and tramping.
Dogs and other pets Disused logging tracks provide trails through varied
It is an offence under the National Parks Act
and scenic forest.
1990 to bring dogs or any other introduced
animals into Tongariro National Park. This includes

6 7
Camping Tongariro Northern Circuit (Mangatepopo, Oturere and
Mangawhero Campsite is located 2 kilometres up Waihohonu) are also supplied with gas cookers. Hut
Ohakune Mountain Road. Mangahuia Campsite is rangers are in residence at these huts over this period
located off SH47. There is a charge and self–registration and can provide park and weather information.
is required. Toilets are provided. Campsites are located Considerate hut use
near each of the huts on the Tongariro Northern Circuit. During your visit to Tongariro National Park, please
There is a charge for campsites at huts, check the DOC respect the rights of other visitors. Clean the benches,
website or at a DOC visitor centre for current rates. sweep the floor and ensure no food scraps (which
Reservations are required during the Great Walks encourage vermin) remain. Maximum group size at huts
season. If you camp at a campsite with a hut you may or campsites is 16. Use is limited to two consecutive nights.
use any of the hut facilities except a bunk and mattress.
Hut and camping fees (see following section) contribute Hut bookings and fees
to service and maintenance and help to ensure that The Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk
these special backcountry facilities remain available. During the Great Walks Season bookings must be
Contact a DOC visitor centre and/or an i-SITE centre made for Mangatepopo, Oturere and Waihohonu Huts.
for more information and hut/campsite pass sales. Bookings for these huts can be made online at
Camping is not permitted at picnic sites, in the Active bookings.doc.govt.nz. You can create your own
Volcanic Hazard Zone of Mt Tongariro or within 200 account, view, modify and cancel your booking.
metres of any State Highway or other road. Camping is Other huts
not permitted within 500 metres of the Northern Circuit Other huts in Tongariro National Park do not require
Track or within 200 metres of any other track except booking at any time. They are on a first-come basis only.
designated campsites. Backcountry tickets may be purchased for these huts
from DOC visitor centres.
Huts
Hut fees
There are eight public huts in Tongariro National Park
These are listed on the DOC website for the
available for overnight use. Historic Waihohonu Hut,
Great Walks Season under Tongariro National Park.
preserved as an historic building, is not available for
See www.doc.govt.nz/huts for hut fees. For backcountry
overnight use. Facilities at huts include toilets and a
hut fees please contact your closest DOC office or visitor
water supply. Firewood and an axe or saw are provided
centre. Backcountry Hut Passes and Backcountry Hut
at huts with wood burners.
Tickets are not accepted on the Tongariro Northern
During the Great Walks season (the start of the Circuit during the Great Walks Season.
third weekend in October to 30 April), huts in the

Oturere Hut. Photo: Janette Asche

8 9
 For longer walks, also take:
Plan and prepare • Additional warm woollen or thermal clothing
Your safety is your responsibility. Before you go, know • First aid kit
the Outdoor Safety Code – 5 simple rules to help you • Map and compass.
stay safe:
During winter and snow conditions:
1. Plan your trip
• Snow gaiters
2. Tell someone
• Snow goggles
3. Be aware of the weather
• Ice axe and crampons (and know how to use them).
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies Consider also:
• Avalanche transceiver
Leave your trip details with a trusted contact and
• Snow shovel
leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
For more information visit • Avalanche probe
www.mountainsafety.org.nz. • Personal Locator Beacon
• GPS.

In your pack   
Essential equipment Sun screen
Weather in Tongariro National Park is notoriously First aid kit
changeable. Be prepared for four seasons in one day Food and plenty of drink
and take the correct clothing and equipment. Extra warm clothing
Wet weather gear
While an afternoon walk on a short track will obviously
require less gear than a full day hike, you should always
have adequate footwear (tramping boots for all but
the short walks), wind and waterproof raincoat and
overtrousers, warm clothing, a hat, gloves, sun screen,
water, food and a map.
Check list
 adequate footwear  hat

The correct gear in the mountains. Photo: DOC/90 seconds

 wind and waterproof  gloves
raincoat  water
 overtrousers  food
 warm clothing  map

10 11
Tracks and walks Track grades:
Easy access short walk: suitable for people of all
There are many walks suitable for most visitors in and abilities, wheelchairs and children’s buggies
around Tongariro National Park. This booklet gives Short walk: well formed, easy walking for up to
brief track descriptions and simple locality maps. These an hour
should be used in conjunction with more detailed maps.
Walking track: well formed easy walks from a few
Supplementary information like track and hut conditions,
minutes to a day
daylight hours, etc is available from DOC visitor centres
and offices and some i-SITES. Great Walk or easy tramping track: generally
well formed track for comfortable overnight
Most of the shorter walks are on well-surfaced tracks and
tramping / hiking trips
are suitable for most visitors. Many of the longer tracks
follow poled routes only. Some are unformed, completely Tramping track: mostly unformed but have track
unmarked and require special care, navigation and high- directional markers, poles or cairns
level backcountry skills and experience. Route: unformed, suitable only for people with
Before setting out on your trip, remember to inform a high level backcountry skills and experience
reliable person of your intentions, and check in with
them on or after your return. If you are overdue they Mountain bike grades
should contact the New Zealand Police. I ntermediate grade 3: Steep slopes and/or
avoidable obstacles possibly on narrow track
and/or with poor traction. There may be
exposure at the tracks outside edge.

Whakapapa
Whakapapa Village is the
northwest entrance to the
Tongariro National Park and to
the Whakapapa Ski Area.

Mt Ruapehu, Whakapapa Village. Photo: Drew Divehall

12 13
Whakapapa map Village
enlargement To
Whakapapa Ski Area
Whakapapaiti Track
27
Br
uc
26 eR
oad

1 Nature Walk
4 Ridge
Walk
Tama Silica 7
Lakes Shop Rapids
9
Holiday
Park
Tongariro
National Park
9 Visitor Centre 6
e
Skotel Plac Whakapapanui
hoe Track
āuru Chateau
Tongariro Ridge Ng Tongariro
Northern Walk
Circuit Taranaki 5 4 To Taranaki Falls 5
Falls 9 Tavern
27 and Tama Lakes
Nature
Walk Round the To Taranaki Falls 5
1 7 Mountain
Whakapapa Village Car park
Silica Track 26 To 2 3
Toilet
Rapids The Mounds and
Whakapapaiti Visitor shelter
Tawhai Falls
Hut 0 300 m
6
8 Whakapapaiti
Whakapapanui Valley
Track

Tawhai Falls 3
Walks (less than
3 hours)
2 The Mounds These walk are accessible on
foot from Whakapapa Village
or require a short drive to the
starting point.
47
Mangahuia 1  Whakapapa
Campsite Hauhungatahi
Nature Walk
15 min loop track
Begins 250 m above
Tongariro National Park
Visitor Centre on SH48.
This sealed loop track gives
a glimpse of the unique flora
4
of Tongariro National Park.
National A series of on-site information
Park panels explain the various
vegetation zones in the park.
14 15
28
 2  Mounds Walk 5  Taranaki Falls Walking Track

Taranaki Falls. Photo: Daniel Deans

20 min return 2 hr, 6 km loop track
Begins 5 km below Tongariro National Park Visitor Begins 100 m below the visitor centre
Centre on SH48. on Ngāuruhoe Place.
Debris avalanches during Ruapehu’s periods of volcanic The track to Taranaki Falls has excellent
activity are believed to have formed these mounds mountain views and crosses a range of
thousands of years ago. The top of the track offers good land forms. All streams are bridged. The
views of the volcanoes and surrounding area. upper and lower tracks form a loop with
the falls situated around the halfway
3  Tawhai Falls Walk
point. The lower track is generally the
20 min return more sheltered on windy days.
Begins 4 km below Tongariro National Park Visitor
Centre on SH48. The lower track passes through tussock and alpine
The falls, which tumble over the edge of an ancient lava shrublands before entering beech forest. On a clear day
flow, are reached after a short stroll through mountain Ngāuruhoe’s symmetrical cone and the older, eroded
toatoa and beech forest. mountains of Tongariro and Pukekaikiore are visible.
Once in the forest, the track descends to Wairere Stream
4  Ridge Walk then climbs alongside it, passing Cascade Falls. The
30–40 min, 1.2 km return forest consists mainly of large mountain beech trees,
Begins 150 m above Tongariro National Park shiny broadleaf, mountain five-finger, umbrella ferns and
Visitor Centre. mountain toatoa. Small native birds such as whiteheads,
After a short climb through low beech forest, the track grey warbler and rifleman are commonly seen.
emerges into alpine shrublands with panoramic views of From the forest edge the track passes over the Wairere
Mt Ngāuruhoe and the surrounding landscape. Stream with impressive views of a small narrow gorge.
Continuing on up the track, Taranaki Falls comes
into view tumbling 20 metres over the edge of a large
andesite lava flow which erupted from Ruapehu 15,000
years ago.
The trail from the falls climbs up a flight of 100 steps
to a forest of mountain toatoa before joining the Tama
Lakes Track. Turn right to return to Whakapapa, cross
Wairere Stream and climb the shoulder of the lava
flow, now covered with red tussock. Native birds likely
to be heard in this area include pipits, fernbirds and
occasionally skylarks.
Tawhai Falls. Photo: Conrad Smith

The return track crosses a series of eroded gullies

formed by wind, rain and frost action on volcanic soils.
As the trail begins to sidle around the slopes of Mount
Ruapehu, it merges with the wider old Waihohonu horse
trail. Here, layers of pumice and ash from previous
eruptions are exposed. After passing through the last
patch of bush, the track emerges again into red tussock
and manuka, leading easily back to the village.
16 17
 6  Whakapapanui Walking Track Emerging from the bush, the track climbs to a swampy
2 hr, 6 km return via same track or via SH48 area of wire rush, tangle fern and red tussock. Seepage
Begins 250 metres above Tongariro National Park ponds beside the boardwalk are home to freshwater
Visitor Centre. crayfish (kōura). The boardwalk makes walking over
After a 10–15 minute walk, the Whakapapanui swampy ground more comfortable and reduces the
Walking Track branches to the right (don’t follow impact of foot traffic on delicate vegetation. This is a
the Whakapapaiti Track sign in error!) and heads great place to enjoy mountain views.
downstream. Water-logged clearings are passed as After passing the Whakapapaiti Track turn-off, the
the track follows Whakapapanui Stream. Here, storm- Silica Rapids Track follows the stream up through
damaged beech forest is slowly regenerating. The dense bush to Punaruku Falls. Here, after heavy rain,
tracks comes out at the bridge of SH48 3km below Tawhainui Stream tumbles over the edge of an ancient
Whakapapa Village. lava flow. Close to the track, metal bands on tree trunks
Keep a look out along the river for the endangered whio/ protect mistletoe from possums. At the forest edge
blue duck. They are the same colour as the rocks so can gold-coloured snow tōtara and olive-green bog pine give
be very difficult to spot, but you may hear the male’s way to sun-loving alpine herbs and alpine flowers like
whistling call. mountain daisies, harebells and ourisia.

7  Silica Rapids Walking Track A little further up the hill the stream bed widens and
forms a series of shallow terraces coated in creamy
2 hr 30 min, 7 km return via Bruce Road
white deposits – the famous Silica Rapids. When the
Begins 250 metres above Tongariro National Park
stream emerges from lava cliffs at the head of the valley
Visitor Centre.
the water is rich in aluminium and silicate minerals. As
This track takes in a range of vegetation types as well as
the stream gathers speed and the water is aerated, the
the creamy-white Silica Rapid terraces. After crossing
alumino-silicates are deposited on the stream bed.
Whakapapanui Stream at the top end of the Holiday
Park, the track meanders through beech forest. Pass the Moving on from the rapids, the track climbs onto a
Whakapapanui Track turn-off and continue towards tussock-covered lava flow. A small clump of mountain
Silica Rapids. The track soon crosses a bubbling stream beech and toatoa, seen a short distance up the mountain,
with a gold-toned bed. The coloured deposits are iron- forms the upper limit of beech trees in the area. The
oxide clays from upstream swamps. Coprosma, five track then winds through tussock and sub-alpine shrubs
finger and broadleaf surround the track. to the Bruce Road.
Silica Rapids. Photo: DOC

18 19
Day tramps (3–8 hours)   9  Tama Lakes Tramping Track
5–6 hr, 17 km return on same track
  8  Whakapapaiti Valley Tramping Track
Begins 100 metres below the visitor centre at the
4–5 hr, 16 km loop (including the Bruce Road end of Ngāuruhoe Place.
section) or 11 km one-way (transport required) This track is an extension of the Taranaki Falls Track
Begins 250 m above Tongariro National Park Visitor and part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit and Round
Centre. See map (page 14). the Mountain tracks.
The track can be walked in either direction but is
At the top of Taranaki Falls, the track branches off the
described anticlockwise. Follow Silica Rapids Track for
Taranaki Falls Walk, to cross rolling tussock country
about 45 minutes to the junction with Whakapapaiti
and alpine herbfields. Further on, the track branches
Track. The track goes through forest then an open
left to Tama Lakes, while the main track continues
tussock-covered area. There is a bridged crossing of
on to Waihohonu Hut. There is a view of the lower
Whakapapaiti River, then the track continues up the
lake (1240 metres), and then the track climbs steeply
valley, passing the junction with Mangahuia Track
to a viewpoint (1440 metres) of the upper lake. Tama
(2–3 hours to campsite). Further up the valley there is an
Lakes occupy several old explosion craters on Tama
unbridged river crossing - it may not be possible to cross
Saddle between Ruapehu and Ngāuruhoe. The saddle
safely when the river is high following or during rainfall.
experiences strong wind and cold temperatures,
Whakapapaiti Hut is 10–15 minutes further up the track.
windproof clothing is recommended.
Leaving the hut, the track winds its way through
stunted beech forest, then up the valley to the Round
the Mountain Track junction. Turn left here towards
Bruce Road. The track zig-zags up and over a moraine
ridge with great views of Whakapapaiti Valley and the
surrounding landscape. Continue to the Scoria Flat area
on the Bruce Road. From here it is approximately 5 km
down the road to Whakapapa Village.

Upper Tama Lake. Photo: DOC

20 21
 Ohakune
map 26
Turoa
Ski Area

Mangaturuturu Hut

Blyth Hut

k
ra c
12

to T
Waitonga Falls. Photo: Liz Brooker
13
Ohakune

i
rop
26

Ho
r
ve
Ri

Mangawhero River
Ohakune is the southern ur
u
ut
entrance to the Tongariro t ur
ga
an
National Park and to the M
16
Turoa Ski Area.

  10  Rimu Walk
  11  Mangawhero Forest Walk

Walks (less than 3 hours)   12  Mangawhero Falls Walk

  13  Waitonga Falls Walk
See Ohakune map (page 23)

ntain Road
  15  Ohakune Old Coach Road
 Rimu Walk
  10 and Historic Viaducts

15 min return   16  Old Blyth Track

Ohakune Mou
This walk begins opposite the DOC Ohakune   26  Round the Mountain Track

Base at the bottom of Ohakune Mountain Road.  Parking

This track loops off the Mangawhero Forest Walk. It  Scenic campsite
meanders gently through an understorey of ground  Picnic area
ferns and kāmahi and criss-crosses a quiet mountain  Information
Mangawhero
Campsite and
stream. It is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
 Serviced hut picnic area
  11  Mangawhero Forest Walk
11
1 hr, 3 km loop track DOC
This track begins opposite the DOC Ohakune Base at 10 Ohakune
Base
the bottom of Ohakune Mountain Road.
After crossing the Mangawhero River, the track leads 15 Ohakune Junction
into a forest of kāmahi, broadleaf and five finger, with
giant rimu, mataī and kahikatea reaching 30 metres or
more above the forest floor. Immediately after passing
through a cut log the track crosses a large volcanic
crater. At its highest point, the track crosses Ohakune
Mountain Road and returns to where you began. OHAKUNE
22 23
   12  Mangawhero Falls Walk National Cycle Trail:
5–10 min return Ruapehu–Whanganui Trails
Starts from a car park on Ohakune Mountain Road,
13 km past the DOC Ohakune Base. Ngā Ara Tūhono
This short walk provides excellent views of a beautiful From the mountains to the sea
waterfall close to the road. Here, not far below the
 Ohakune Old Coach Road and
  15
bushline, the beech forest is stunted because of the
Historic Viaducts
harsh climate. Spectacular icicles form around the
Walk and Cycle Track: Ohakune to Horopito
falls in winter.
(or reverse) 15 km.
  13  Waitonga Falls Walking Track Ohakune Railway Station to Horopito 2 hr 20 min cycle,
1 hr 20 min, 4 km return 4 hr 30 min walk
This track begins 11 km from the bottom of Ohakune
Ohakune Railway Station to Marshalls Road car park
Mountain Road.
From the station follow the footpath to the Mangawhero
One of the park’s highest waterfalls, Waitonga Falls
River Bridge and cross over onto Old Station Road.
(39 m), is reached via a well-formed track through
Continue about 1.5 kilometres and turn right onto
mountain beech and kaikawaka (mountain cedar)
Marshalls Road. Total distance, 3 km. The track
forest. The track passes Rotokawa, an alpine bog where
continues from the car park.
on a calm day the reflection of Mt Ruapehu’s southern
face can be seen in the pools. Past the falls, the track
continues as part of the Round the Mountain Track, a 4-
to 6-day tramp around Mt Ruapehu (see page 37).

 Lake Rotokura Walking Track

  14
30 min return Old Coach Road. Photo: Camilla Stoddart
Signposted off SH49, 12 km from Ohakune en route
to Waiouru. Drive 1 km from the turn-off along Karioi
Station Road, cross the railway line, continue to
Rotokura car park. See main map (fold-out back cover).
Lakes, beech forest and plentiful bird life feature on this
short walk in Rotokura Ecological Area. The first lake
you will pass on the track is Dry Lake. Flat, grassed areas
above the lake are perfect for family picnics. The track
continues past Dry Lake to Lake Rotokura. This lake is
surrounded by ancient beech forest and on clear days
Mount Ruapehu is reflected in the lake’s calm waters.
Native birds such as tūī, kākā, bellbird, fantail and North
Island robin are commonly seen or heard along the track
to the lake. Rotokura is tapu (sacred healing waters) to
Ngāti Rangi, the local Māori people or tangata whenua.
Please respect this by not eating at or near Rotokura.
Fishing is also prohibited.

24 25
Marshalls Road car park to 4
HOROPITO
Hapuawhenua Viaduct
From the car park the track follows the

Photo: Tourism New Zealand

Ohakune Old Coach Road, weaving its
way through rolling farmland with views

Hapuawhenua viaduct.
over the spectacular Ohakune Basin. It ea m
Str
then heads into native bush toward the er
e
a
Hapuawhenua Viaducts. Cobblestones m
e re
(setts) are still evident along the track. Ha
Explore the Hapuawhenua Tunnel
and marvel at the workmanship of
yesteryear. The track climbs up to r ea m
u i St
a ridge before dropping into the on
Ta

Hapuawhenua rail tunnel portal.

Hapuawhenua Valley. There are good
stands of kahikatea, rimu, mataī and
ponga along the way. From this point
Taonui Ohakune Old
the two viaducts come into view. Walk

Photo: Rosie Brown

Viaduct Coach Rd
the historic Hapuawhenua Viaduct and
enjoy both old and new viaducts and
native forest surrounds. The limestone
cliff that is visible high up on top of
Raetihi Hill is a reminder that this area
was once under the sea. From here you
can return to Ohakune or carry on to
Hapuawhenua
Horopito. Viaducts

a St r e a m
Hapuawhenua Viaduct to Horopito
From the western end of Hapuawhenua Tongariro
Viaduct access the cycle trail to National Park
nu
e
Horopito. The trail passes through a Ha p u a w h
beautiful section of native bush before M
coming out on the original Old Coach
ar
sh
Road again. This is known as the
al ls

Skyline section; some kilometres of it

Road

can be very muddy and difficult for less Railway

experienced riders. On the way to the Station
highest point the trail passes the old
d
t ation Roa

quarry which supplied much of the rock

for the cobbles as the old dray road was
upgraded to a coaching road in 1905.
dS

At the top of the ridge you again pass

Ol

by some magnificent rimu and rātā

trees and there are beautiful views over OHAKUNE

26
 farmland and hills. Throughout this part of the trail there Marshalls Road, Ohakune to
are old campsites established when the dray road was Hapuawhenua Viaduct return
upgraded. While not much can be seen of them, they are 6.8 km return, 1 hr 30 min cycle
a reminder of the hardships the road workers and their 2 hr 30 min walk
families faced while living in canvas-covered houses in See description on page 26 to the viaduct. Return via
the midst of a cold, wet rainforest. same route. Access along the railway line or rail access
Shortly after crossing the bridge over a beautiful spring- road is not permitted.
fed stream, there is a grassed picnic area surrounded
by rimu and tawa trees. This is an ideal place to stop for
a rest before continuing through the forest, down the
Day tramps (3–8 hours)
hill to Taonui Stream and under the new Taonui Rail
See Ohakune map (page 23)
Bridge. The trail follows the stream down to the historic
Taonui Viaduct. From the top of the viaduct you follow   16  Old Blyth Tramping Track
part of the old railway alignment through to the present 4–5 hr, 11 km round trip
day railway line. The railway line must be crossed at the This track begins on the Ohakune Mountain Road.
designated crossing point. Use caution when looking for Following part of the historic route up Mount
trains which regularly use the line. Ruapehu, the track climbs gradually through one of
From the railway line the next points of interest are the the few red beech stands in the park and then passes
old viaduct abutments across Haeremaere Stream. From through kaikawaka and mountain beech until it meets
here the trail crosses the stream and follows the Old the Waitonga Falls Track. When Blyth Track was
Coach Road through to Horopito. Signs at each end of constructed in the early 1900s, much of the route was
the trail give distances and time estimates for riding and through alpine bog. Logs placed horizontally across the
walking. There are also directional signs en route. Please track (‘corduroy’) helped improve the muddy surface.
respect the environment and ensure all rubbish and The remains of this type of track can still be seen.
human waste is removed from the park. For the return it is necessary to retrace your steps or
walk out to the Mountain Road via the Waitonga Falls
/ Round the Mountain Tramping Track.
Old Coach Road. Photo: Avara
Moody and Rebecca O’Brien

28 29
 Mangatepopo Track. Photo: John Strother
On and near
Mt Tongariro
About a million people
visit Tongariro National
Park each year. Despite the
popular ski fields on Mount
Ruapehu, there are more
visitors in summer than
winter due to the excellent
hiking opportunities.

Walks (less than 3 hours) Day tramps (3 – 8 hours)

See map (fold-out back cover)   18  Historic Waihohonu Hut
3  hr, 6.3 km return
  17  Soda Springs Walking Track
From the Desert Road, SH1 35 km south of Tūrangi.
1.5 hr one way, 6 km return See images (page 42)
Begins at the Mangatepopo roadend, 13.4 km from Built in 1903/04 by the government, this hut used to be a
Whakapapa Village, 7 km up Mangatepopo Road, stopover for stage coaches. The walls are constructed of
off SH47. A 4-hr car parking restriction is in place at a double layer of corrugated iron with a layer of pumice
Mangatepopo car park from Labour weekend (at the sandwiched between for insulation. No longer used for
end of October) until May. accommodation, the hut is preserved as an historical
The track to Soda Springs is part of the Tongariro building and is classified by the Heritage New Zealand.
Alpine Crossing Track and follows Mangatepopo
Stream. Ngāuruhoe’s most recent lava flows appear The track meanders through beech forest and open
dark in contrast to the older flows tussockland, crossing the Ohinepango Stream. At the
o to: C Rudge which are slowly revegetating. junction where the track branches right to the new
h
.P Waihohonu Hut or left to Rangipo Hut, continue straight
ve Under the headwall of the
glo

Mangatepopo valley, ahead towards Whakapapa for about 5 minutes to the

fox

these cold water springs next junction. Turn left to reach the historic Waihohonu
Mountain

create a small oasis of Hut. Return the same way.

lush yellow mountain
buttercups and white
foxgloves in summer.

30 31
   19  Tongariro Alpine Crossing
7–8 hr, 19.4 km one way
Seasonal restrictions
Recommended direction is from Mangatepopo to Car parking
Ketetahi. This track is part of the Tongariro Northern A 4-hour parking restriction is enforced each year
Circuit and begins at the Mangatepopo roadend, from Labour weekend in October until May at both
13.4 km from Whakapapa. roadends, Mangatepopo and Ketetahi. Traffic management staff
This challenging trip begins at 1120 m, winding up are in place and a DOC ranger will carry out compliance work.
the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mount Plan ahead and book a shuttle with the i-SITE located in
Tongariro and Mount Ngāuruhoe, through South Crater Whakapapa Village or at our nearby towns Tūrangi, Ohakune,
before climbing again to Red Crater, the highest point Taumarunui and Taupō. Visit www.visitruapehu.com and
www.greatlaketaupo.com. Shuttles can also be arranged
on the crossing at 1886 m.
with accommodation providers.
The descent is on a volcanic rock scree track to the
vivid Emerald Lakes, known as Nga Rotopounamu
Winter conditions
(greenstone-hued lakes). After passing Blue Lake,
You need special skills and preparation to complete
also known as Te Wai-Whakaata-o-te-Rangihīroa the Tongariro Alpine Crossing during the winter
(Rangihiroa’s mirror), the track sidles around the months (May to October). There are increased risks from
northern slope of Tongariro, then descends on a long snow, ice, avalanche and sub-zero temperatures. An ice axe
zigzag track down to the road end at 760 m. and crampons are essential, as is competency using them. Be
prepared to turn back if conditions are no longer safe or if your
See the summer Tongariro Alpine Crossing Day Hikes factsheet progress is too slow.
at www.doc.govt.nz/tac-brochure.
Dress for cold, windy and icy conditions: On a calm day, Red
Crater is at least 10°C colder than Taupō and 5°C colder than
the start of the track – subtract another 2°C for every 10 km/h
Take these essentials: of wind. Conditions can change quickly. Layer your clothes to
• Drinking water (water not safe), food and toilet paper trap warm air in and keep cold wind out. Start with a base layer
• Waterproof jacket and pants, sunhat, sunscreen, warm of polypropylene/merino, add an insulation layer of fleece/wool
hat, gloves and layered clothing and finish with a waterproof shell layer.
• Sturdy tramping or mountaineering boots
• Mobile phone, personal locator beacon (PLB) Expect ice on the track between April and October. A helmet,
• Map, compass and/or GPS crampons and ice axe are essential, as is competency using
them, as 38% of tramping injuries are from slipping.
Be avalanche alert: Take an avalanche transceiver, avalanche
probe and snow shovel, and be competent using them.
Make a plan: Talk with someone at the Tongariro National Park
Visitor Centre who knows the current crossing conditions.
See also: www.doc.govt.nz/tongariroalpinecrossing.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Photo: Graeme Murray

See the winter Tongariro Alpine Crossing factsheet: Are

you prepared? At www.doc.govt.nz/tac-winter-brochure.
The Mountain Safety Council at
www.mountainsafety.org.nz has great information and
short videos to help you plan and prepare for your trip.

32 33
 Lake Rotopounamu. Photo: DOC
Further afield
Venture further out to explore a
beautiful lake surrounded by native
forest, a special favourite of tree
lovers, birdwatchers, and families.

Beautiful Rotopounamu (the greenstone lake), nestled

Walks (less than 3 hours)
into the side of Mt Pihanga, is a favourite of tree lovers,
See map (fold-out back cover)
birdwatchers, walkers and swimmers. Beginning
  20  Taurewa Loop Walking Track opposite the car park, the track winds gently uphill. At
2–3 hr, 4.5 km loop track. the top the track branches; either track leads around the
17 km from Whakapapa Village. Take SH47 north, turn lake, past several beaches and returns to the junction.
left at John McDonald Rd (rough gravel road). Turn right
 Ohinetonga Walking Track
  24
onto Pukehinau Rd. Look for the Taurewa Track sign.
2 hr, 3.8 km loop track
The track starts on the edge of Tongariro Forest and
35 km from Whakapapa Village. Turn right onto
follows old milling trails through bush.
SH4 at National Park and head north towards
  21  Okupata Caves Taumarunui. Turn right at the‘Walking tracks’ sign in
25 km from Whakapapa Village. Turn off SH47, Owhango. This reserve lies between Owhango and the
travel 11 km down John McDonald Rd (rough gravel Whakapapa River (not shown on map).
road). Veer left at the Pukehinau Rd intersection, The track winds through a variety of attractive
continue to caves. scenery, past Ohinetonga Lagoon and through
A natural, unmarked network of limestone passages in beautiful forest. There are picnic areas and good
Tongariro Forest. Recommended for experienced cavers places to swim by the river.
only. Heavy rainfall may result in rising water levels or
flooding in the caves. Day tramps (3–8 hours)
 Te Porere Redoubt Walk
  22
  25 Tupapakurua Falls Track
45 min, 2.5 km return  –5 hr, 11 km return to Tupapakurua Falls Lookout.
4
25 km from Tūrangi on SH47 ( just south of junction From National Park Village, walk 30 min down Fishers
with SH46), 22.3 km from Whakapapa. Rd. Tupapakurua Falls Track starts on the left.
These 1869 earthworks fortifications (outpost and main The track has recently been upgraded by the local
redoubt) were built by the Māori warrior Te Kooti and his community in partnership with DOC. It begins with an
followers. It was here that the last of the New Zealand land easy 20 min walk to the Taranaki Lookout. From this
wars were fought. This area is preserved by Heritage New point the track becomes a backcountry adventure track
Zealand and Te Rūnanganui o Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro. and is suitable for experienced trampers only. The track
follows a ridge and then descends steeply to a stream.
 Rotopounamu Walking Track
  23 There are good stands of tawa, mature rimu, miro and
20 min to lake one way; 2 hr, 5 km loop track totara to see along the way. Climbing from the stream,
11 km from Tūrangi, 35 km from Whakapapa on SH47. the track winds its way around bluffs to a good lookout
Car park signposted south of Te Ponanga Saddle. point with views of the falls.
34 35
   26  Round the Mountain

Multi-day This is a 4–6 day tramp around

Mount Ruapehu. It is ideal for those seeking solitude,
tramping tracks magnificent mountain views and a backcountry
experience and is a more remote alternative to the
popular Tongariro Northern Circuit. Enjoyable in
Tongariro National Park
either direction.
has a range of day- and
The track can be walked at any time of year, but the
multi-day tracks for
safest and most popular time is from December to
serious trampers. March. During this period the tracks are normally clear
of snow and the weather is less severe.
The Round the Mountain Track traverses a myriad of
landscapes, ranging from mountain beech forest, tussock
country and alpine herbfields; to desert lands and glacial
river valleys. Although a greater part of the track is in an
alpine environment, there are no major alpine passes.
There are six huts are on the track. Five are backcountry
huts on a first-come basis only; Waihohonu is a Great Walk
hut requiring reservations in the Great Walk season.
More detailed information and maps are available at
the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre:
• NZTopo50 series: BJ34 Mt Ruapehu and BJ35 Waiouru

Access
It is possible to walk sections of the track in 1–2 days, or
the full trip in up to 6 days. Access points are:
Oturere Hut, Tongariro Northern Circuit. Photo: DOC/90 Seconds

• Whakapapa
Whakapapa Village — Silica Rapids Track/
Whakapapaiti Track entrance. There are overnight car
parks in the village opposite the Tongariro National
Park Visitor Centre.
• Scoria Flat
5 km from Whakapapa Village on the Bruce Road.
• Desert Road (SH1)
There is a car park just off the Desert Road, 35 km
from Tūrangi or 21 km from the Rangipo Junction. It is
approximately 1 hr 30 min to the Round the Mountain/
Tongariro Northern Circuit junction, then a further 5 hr
to Rangipo Hut.

36 37
• Ohakune Mountain Road Waihohonu Hut to Rangipo Hut
There are two access points: Waitonga Falls car park 5 hr, 12.5 km one way
(at 11 km) and Whanganui Corner (at 15 km) on opposite The track from Waihohonu Hut to Rangipo Hut is in one
sides of the road. of the most unique areas in the park. It is the only true
• Tongariro Northern Circuit desert landscape in the North Island, and features vast
There are two connection points with the Northern Circuit: plains of wind sculptured sands and volcanic rock. The
Whakapapa Village and Waihohonu Track junction. Rangipo Desert is dryer than most areas in Tongariro
• Tūkino Road (4 wheel drive) National Park as it is sited in the rain shadow to the east
This is not a regular track access point. The road leads of Mount Ruapehu.
to the Tūkino club ski field. Road conditions vary. It The track passes Ohinepango Springs then traverses the
can be rough at any time of the year and in the winter eastern side of Ruapehu, past Tūkino Mountain Road and
it is often impassable due to snow. In summer there is the Whangaehu River, eventually arriving at Rangipo
a locked gate beyond the point where the Round the Hut. The hut is perched on the southern edge of the
Mountain Track crosses the road. desert with views east to the Kaimanawa mountains.

Whakapapa Village to Waihohonu Hut Rangipo Hut to Mangaehuehu Hut

5 hr 30 min, 14.3 km one way 5 hr 30 min, 8.5 km one way
The track begins at the end of Ngāuruhoe Place 100 m The trip from Rangipo to Mangaehuehu is an undulating
below Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre. traverse. It leaves the desertlands of Rangipo, re-entering
There are two options. The Lower Taranaki Falls Track the mountain beech forest on the southern flanks of
crosses tussock and shrubland before following Wairere Mt Ruapehu. A feature of this section is crossing the
Stream through mountain beech forest to the base of awesome Wahianoa Gorge which cuts a path down the
Taranaki Falls. On leaving the falls, the track climbs mountain into Karioi Forest.
a set of steps and brings you to the junction with the
Upper Taranaki Falls Track (1 hr 15 min to this point).
Alternatively, the Upper Taranaki Falls Track takes you
over tussock and shrubland to the same point in 1 hr.
After leaving the Taranaki Falls Track, it is a further 2 hr
to Tama Saddle and Tama Lakes junction. From here a
side trip can be made to the Tama Lakes. Tama Saddle is
exposed and can be windy in bad weather (see page 21).
From Tama Saddle the track gradually descends for 2 hr

Rangipo Hut. Photo: Eduardo Villouta Stengl

down Waihohonu Stream to Waihohonu Hut (note that
reservations are required from late October to April).
A side trip can be made from the Round the Mountain
Track to the historic Waihohonu Hut (see page 31)
about 10 min before you reach the new hut.

38 39
Mangaehuehu Hut to Ohakune Mountain Road Mangaturuturu Hut to Whakapapaiti Hut
3 hr, 8.9 km one way 5 hr 30 min, 10.3 km one way
The gradual downhill traverse beech trees On leaving the hut, the track crosses the Mangaturuturu
n on alo
see n
from Mangaehuehu weaves e River. It may not be possible to cross safely when the river

gt
yb
through open alpine is high during or following rain. The river bed was scoured

he
ma

trac
tussock country and out in 1975 by a lahar (volcanic mud flow), thus the sides

Mistletoe

k. Photo: Tre
mountain beech stands. of the river are devoid of established vegetation. Take care
After 1 hr 30 min, a track crossing the river, particularly after heavy rain. A climb out
junction gives walkers of the valley brings you to Lake Surprise, a shallow alpine
the option of a side trip tarn. The staircase that climbs up from Lake Surprise onto

vo
rJ
to Blyth Hut (1 hr return) the ridge above was constructed to protect the fragile
oh
ns
to n
or continuing out to Ohakune alpine environment previously destroyed by trampers
Mountain Road. About 20 min past the track junction clambering up the difficult rock face.
are Waitonga Falls (39 metres), one of the highest falls The traverse to Whakapapaiti features two magnificent
in Tongariro National Park. The track out to the road river valleys, the Manganuioteao and the Makatote.
passes Rotokawa, a tarn featuring several alpine wetland These rivers merge in the Ruatiti valley then flow into
species and spectacular views of Ruapehu the Whanganui River. This part of the track features
on a clear day. views of Hauhungatahi, a conical peak to the northwest
A second junction indicates the Old Blyth Track (1 hr of Ruapehu, as well as spectacular waterfalls tumbling
15 min to the 7-km point on Ohakune Mountain Road) off lava bluffs in the Whakapapaiti valley. The track
on the left, or 15 min straight ahead to Waitonga Falls car junction just before Whakapapaiti Hut gives you the
park (see page 24), the 11-km point on the road. There is option of continuing on to Scoria Flat on the Bruce
a 3-km walk up the road to link up with the Round the Road (1 hr 30 min), or turning off to Whakapapaiti Hut
Mountain Track again. (15 min) and on to Whakapapa Village (2 hr 30 min).

Ohakune Mountain Road to Mangaturuturu Hut Whakapapaiti Hut to Whakapapa Village

1 hr 30 min, 3 km one way 1 hr 30 min to Scoria Flat one way
The track begins at Whanganui Corner, the 15-km point 2 hr 30 min to the village, 8.7 km one way
on the Ohakune Mountain Road, and descends into the From Whakapapaiti Hut the track continues down
Makotuku valley. It crosses over a lava ridge covered the valley. Fifteen minutes below the hut it crosses
in alpine herbs and then descends into the expansive Whakapapaiti River. In low flow it is possible to boulder
Mangaturuturu valley via the Cascades, where a hop across the river but after heavy rain crossings can be
mountain stream tumbles over a spectacular rockfall. unsafe. If necessary take the alternative return route via
The rocks are coated with a creamy-coloured silica the Round the Mountain top track to Scoria Flat, 5 km
deposit left behind by the fast-flowing stream. above Whakapapa Village on Bruce Rd. In winter, this
Take care here, as the rocks can be slippery all route may be covered in snow and ice. Crampons, ice
year round. Mangaturuturu Hut, situated on axes and alpine experience may be required.
the valley floor, is maintained jointly by DOC and the
Wanganui Tramping Club.

40 41
 Tama Lakes. Photos: Jimmy Johnson DOC
About 45 min below the hut Mangahuia Track branches Beware of strong
off to the left (to Mangahuia Campsite and SH47). The crosswinds on the
track to the village continues straight on then veers ridgelines up to the
Upper Tama lake lookout.
east. Interesting features of this area are the groves of
kaikawaka and cabbage trees amongst the beech forest.
From here the track undulates for a number of easy
climbs and descents before joining the well formed Silica
Rapids Track, for the last 45 min to Whakapapa Village.

Side trips
Historic Waihohonu Hut
See walk 21 (page 31) for more information.

Blyth Hut
1 hr return from track junction
Blyth Hut can be reached by leaving the Round the
Mountain Track at a junction just east of Waitonga Falls.
A gentle climb through mountain beech forest brings
you out into the open, from where the hut is a short Tama Lakes
climb above the headwaters of the Mangateitei Stream. The junction to the Tama Lakes is approximately
The hut site features expansive views of the mountain an hour’s walk from Taranaki Falls on the way to
and the countryside to the south. Waihohonu Hut.
Lower Tama: 20 min return from the junction
 Inside Historic Upper Tama 1 hr 30 min return from the junction
Waihohonu Hut
This is the oldest Tama Lakes, two infilled explosion craters, are named
existing mountain hut after Tamatea, the high chief of the Tākitimu canoe,
in New Zealand. It was who explored the area six centuries ago. The lower lake
first built in Tongariro
National Park in 1904,
(1200 metres above sea level), is a 10 minute side trip
and was the base for from the junction. Volcanic debris is slowly washing in
the first recreational and filling the crater. The upper lake (at 1314 metres), is
sking. It was in active a further 35 minutes up a steep ridge. This beautiful lake
use for over 60 years.
is reputed to be very deep.

Ohinepango Springs
5 min return from Round the Mountain Track
Historic Waihohonu Hut.
Photos: Janette Asche

1 hr return from new Waihohonu Hut

The springs are signposted on the Round the Mountain
Track heading south towards Rangipo Hut. Crystal-
clear cold water bubbles up from beneath an old lava
flow and discharges at an enormous rate into the
Ohinepango Stream.
42 43
   27  Tongariro Northern Circuit Mangatepopo Hut to Emerald Lakes
Reservations required in the 3 hr 30 min, 8 km
Great Walks Season (see page 8). A range of trips can The track follows Mangatepopo Stream up the glacially
be planned around the Tongariro Northern Circuit. Day carved valley, climbing over a succession of lava flows
trips, overnight trips, or a 3- to 4-day walk around the from Ngāuruhoe. A 5-minute detour at the head of the
complete circuit. The most popular time of year to walk valley leads to Soda Springs, cold springs which emerge
the Tongariro Northern Circuit is during the summer beneath an old lava flow.
months (December to March) when the tracks are The steep climb to Mangatepopo Saddle is known as
normally clear of snow and the weather is less severe. the Devil’s Staircase. It rewards climbers with views of
The Tongariro Northern Circuit connects with the the valley and if clear, Mt Taranaki to the west. From
Round the Mountain Track at two points – Whakapapa the saddle the track crosses South Crater, not a true
Village and Waihohonu. crater but a drainage basin between the surrounding
volcanic landforms.
More detailed information and maps are available
at Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre: The climb to Red Crater offers splendid views of Oturere
• NZTopo50 series: BJ34 Mt Ruapehu, BH34 Raurimu, valley and the Kaimanawa Mountains to the east. Local
and BH35 Tūrangi iwi ask that you respect their tikanga and do not climb to
• Tongariro Northern Circuit brochure the summit. Follow the main track along the crater rim.
The large flat-topped crater seen ahead is North Crater.
Track description A scoria covered ridge leads down to Emerald Lakes.
Whakapapa to Mangatepopo Hut These three lakes fill old explosion craters. Their
3 hr (up to 5 hr in bad weather), 8.5 km one way brilliant colour is caused by minerals washed down
Begins 100 metres below the Tongariro National Park from the thermal area of Red Crater. The lakes are
Visitor Centre at Ngāuruhoe Place and along the lower tapu or sacred and also have a high mineral content
Taranaki Falls Track. About 20 min from the village the so swimming in them is not permitted. Just beyond
Mangatepopo Track branches off the Falls Track. For the Emerald Lakes, the track branches right to Oturere Hut
last hour the track skirts around Pukekaikiore until it or continues straight ahead to Ketetahi Roadend.
reaches the Mangatepopo valley. Mangatepopo Hut is
5 minutes from the Mangatepopo Roadend.
South Crater. Photo: DOC

44 45
 Emerald Lakes to Oturere Hut Waihohonu Hut to Whakapapa Village
1 hr 30 min, 4.8 km 5 hr 30 min, 14.3 km
From Emerald Lakes the track descends steeply into From the historic hut the track follows the Waihohonu
the Oturere valley with views of the valley and the Stream gradually climbing to Tama Saddle. Tama Saddle
Kaimanawa Mountains. The track weaves through an is exposed and can be windy in bad weather.
endless variety of unusual jagged lava forms created by On reaching the saddle a track branches right to Tama
early eruptions from Red Crater. A magical place to visit Lakes, two partially infilled explosion craters. The lower lake
especially on a misty day. Oturere Hut is nestled on the is a 10-minute side trip from the junction while the upper
eastern edge of these flows. lake is up a steep ridge, a 1 hr 30 min side trip.
Oturere Hut to Waihohonu Hut Whakapapa Village is approximately 2 hours from the
3 hr, 7.5 km Tama Lakes junction. After the first hour the track meets
After leaving Oturere Hut the track undulates over the Taranaki Falls Loop Walk. To view the falls, follow
a number of stream valleys and open gravel fields. the lower track down a flight of stairs to a boulder-ringed
The track gradually sidles around the foothills of pool at the base of the falls. The track then continues
Ngāuruhoe descending into a valley and crossing one beside Wairere Stream through mountain beech forest.
of the branches of the Alternatively, take the upper track through tussock and
Waihohonu Stream. shrubland. Both options take about one hour to return
Continue through a to the village.
beech-clad valley before
climbing towards the
ridge top. Waihohonu
Hut is in the next valley.
Bottom - Waihohonu Hut. Photo: Janette Asche

Taranaki Falls. Photo: DOC/90 Seconds

Top - View from inside the hut.
Photo: Daniel Deans

46 47
Backcountry travel in There is reasonable cellular coverage around the

Tongariro National Park park. If you are lost and/or injured call 111 and ask
for Police. In New Zealand, Police handle all land
search and rescue operations.
Travelling beyond the track network in Tongariro A personal locator beacon (PLB) is a reliable method
National Park is not recommended without of alerting authorities to lost or injured trampers. PLBs
backcountry skills and experience. Experience and skills in are available for hire at the i-SITEs at the Tongariro
navigation, route selection, hazard identification, weather National Park Visitor Centre, Tūrangi and Ohakune.
interpretation and survival are needed to safely visit the
wilderness. Natural hazards are not managed in Tongariro
National Park beyond the ski areas. Visiting backcountry alpine
areas exposes you to volcanic hazards, avalanche terrain, ice
and potentially dangerous weather conditions. If deciding to
venture off-track, ask yourself: Do I have the skills, equipment
and experience to make it home?

Don’t lose your way

When travelling in the backcountry,
especially on unmarked routes, it is essential to have
excellent navigational skills and equipment as well as
favourable weather conditions. Otherwise you may
find yourself lost.

If you lose your way – do not panic!

• Try to retrace your steps to the last point where

Tongariro Northern Circuit. Photo: DOC/90 Seconds

you recognise the route.
• Mark your current position, eg with a hat on a rock
and only move within sighting distance of this
object so that you do not stray further from your
known route.
• Do not split up the party.
• Do not travel in ‘white out’ conditions or in the dark.
• If you cannot find the route, and visibility allows, head
for the best shelter that you can find (eg any building,
the leeward side of a ridge, a large rock). Then stay in
one place.
• Make your position as conspicuous as possible.

48 49
 Tongariro’s unique et
hro
ugho
ut the par
k. Ph
o

flora and fauna

liv

to
:
tā

Sa
Wē

bine
Bernert
Wildlife
New Zealand’s plants and animals have developed Insects found in the park
during 80 million years of isolation from the ancient include many varieties of
super-continent of Gondwana. As a result many of them cicada, New Zealand’s largest
are unique and found only in this country. beetle (the huhu), the rare
Birds found in Tongariro National Park include whio/ forest ringlet butterfly, wētā le pe
rched on
ap
and many species of moth. bee t l an
blue duck, North Island brown kiwi, the North Island u

t.
h
hu
robin, whitehead, kererū, fantail, silvereye, chaffinch, tūī, Most notable among

Ph
o
The

to: R
tomtit, blackbird, kākāriki/yellow-crowned parakeet, ruru/ introduced animals are

o
morepork, kārearea/New Zealand falcon and kākā. While deer, goats, possums and

b Scotche
the birds are mostly active during the day, some of the hares, all of which cause
park’s other unique creatures, such as bats and kiwi, only severe damage to alpine

r
come out at night. Tongariro is home to New Zealand’s and forest vegetation.
only native land mammals, the short- and long-tailed bats. Wasps also pose a threat to
Skinks and geckos are also found in the park, but are more native bird species with whom they
likely to be visible during the warmer summer months. compete for food. Red deer provide sport for hunters,
but unfortunately also severely affect the health of our
: Sabine Berne native forests. Stoats and rats are also major predators
oto rt
. Ph of native birds.
e
y
ere
Silv

ch. Photo: Sabin

ran

Ruru/morepork. Photo: Sabine Bernert

eB
ab e
n

rn
āo

ert
Kāk

Whio/blue duck.
Photo: Sabine Bernert
50 51
 Photo: Jimmy
isy. Jo
da hn
in

ta

so
un

n,
Mo

DOC
Vegetation
The park’s plant life has to cope with a wide spectrum Mountain beech forest is the
of climatic conditions and temperatures that range from most widespread forest type in
warm to freezing cold. the park, occurring as an almost
In barren, dry, and cold environments like the Rangipo continuous belt around the western
and southern slopes of Ruapehu. hoto: Jimmy J
Desert or high slopes on the mountains, many plants like n. P oh
Distinctive in these mountain n tia ns
the vegetable sheep adopt a low creeping form, or shelter e
beech forests is kaikawaka

on
in cracks and crevices.

ite

,DO
Wh
or mountain cedar, which is

C
In moist alpine environments, mountain shrubs survive, recognised by its dark green,
many of them herbaceous. Common plants in this conical appearance.
category include mountain inaka and white daisy.
Silver and red beech occur
Sedges, rushes and flaxes are common in the park’s in isolated patches on the
wetlands, such as those on the southern slopes of eastern slopes of Tongariro and
Ruapehu, and around Hauhungatahi. extensively on the south slopes of
The greatest variety of plants probably exists in the Ruapehu, in a zone below the mountain beech. In other
tussock grasslands so characteristic of the park’s scattered areas of the park, usually between 600 m and
mid-mountain slopes. While red tussock may seem 900 m, various hardwood species and podocarps such
to dominate these landscapes, these native grasses as rimu, kāmahi, kahikatea, and rātā can be found.
Photo: C.S R shelter a large number of other Native plants in the park have been displaced by introduced
a toa. ob plants including mosses,
to e r plants (referred to as weeds) including heather and broom.
in
daisies, hebes and
ts

Although these weeds have attractive flowers they are

ta

on
un

mountain toatoa. aggressively invading many tussock grasslands in the park.

Mo
View to Mount Ngāuruhoe.
Photo: Brendan Bombaci

52 53
Protecting our Project Tongariro
natural heritage Project Tongariro
(known for many years
as the Tongariro Natural
Rangataua Forest History Society) is
Rangataua Forest is a 10,000-ha forest located on the made up of people from
southern slopes of Mount Ruapehu. It contains a high throughout New Zealand
number of nationally ranked, high priority threatened with a love for Tongariro
species and ecosystems, including the North Island’s National Park and the surrounding areas, and a
largest mistletoe population and the largest known commitment to conservation.
population of short-tailed bats in New Zealand. There
The vision is to promote a wider knowledge and
are also populations of North Island brown kiwi and
appreciation of the unique natural heritage, historic,
kākā, as well as endangered wetland orchids.
educational and recreational values of Project Tongariro.
DOC’s work in Rangataua Forest involves controlling Since establishment in 1984, as a living memorial to five
pests like rats and stoats that prey on the endangered people who died in a helicopter accident on Mt Ruapehu,
birds and bats, as well as controlling possums that Project Tongariro has contributed to promoting
destroy native plants. DOC also monitors the bat, kiwi and supporting conservation efforts in and around
and endangered plant populations, as well as carrying Tongariro National Park such as the forest restoration
out weed control in the wetlands and alpine areas. of Rotopounamu, the restoration of the Hapuawhenua
Rangataua Forest is a significant area for the local iwi viaduct as a walkway and providing opportunities for
(tribe) Ngāti Rangi because of their cultural and historic students to study in the park.
association with the southern side of Mount Ruapehu.
Access to the area is through the Rotokura Ecological Project Tongariro welcomes new
Reserve, situated just off State Highway 49, 14 km members. If you enjoy visiting the park
southeast of Ohakune, where there is a 30-minute walk and wish to give practical support or
to tranquil Lake Rotokura. are interested in learning more,
contact them at:
Mt Pihanga and Rotopounamu restoration Email: [email protected]
Mt Pihanga is situated at the northernmost point of the Phone: 07 386 6499
Tongariro National Park. Rotopounamu (see page 34) is www.tongariro.org.nz
nestled into the flank of Mt Pihanga, an easy 20 min walk
from SH47. This project began in 2003 with the aim of
protecting and restoring the native biodiversity of the area.

Diverse range of alpine plants.

Photo: stokedforsaturday.com
To date, Project Tongariro volunteers and DOC have
achieved these steps toward restoration:
• Monitoring and investigation towards introduced
pest control within the area
• Nesting success study of New Zealand robin
• Set up bat detection boxes
• Completion of a freshwater study of the lake.

54 55
 Tongariro National Park

Map Key
  8  Whakapapaiti Valley Track
  9  Tama Lakes Track
  14  Lake Rotokura Track
23
  15  Ohakune Old Coach Road
and Historic Viaducts
  16  Old Blyth Track 22
21
  17  Soda Springs Track 20
  18  Historic Waihohonu Hut

  19  Tongariro Alpine Crossing

  20  Taurewa Loop Track

  21  Okupata Caves 19
  22  Te Porere Redoubt Walk
24 Mangatepopo 17
  23  Rotopounamu Track 27 27
Hut Oturere Hut
  24  Ohinetonga Track
  25  Tupapakurua Falls Track
27
  26  Round the Mountain
27
  27  Tongariro National
Park Waihohonu
Northern Circuit 25 9 Hut
Mangahuia 26 27 18
 Scenic campsite Tongariro
Campsite
National Park
 Serviced hut Visitor Centre
26
 Great Walk hut 8
 Picnic area Whakapapaiti Hut
 Information 26
 Caving

Rangipo Hut
Mangaturuturu
Hut

Blyth Hut 26

16 Mangaehuehu Hut

Mangawhero
Campsite

15
to Whanganui

14