The oldest national park in New Zealand, Tongariro National Park is also the forth oldest in the world. Home to three of the world’s most active live volcanoes, Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National Park covers 795m2 of the North Islands volcanic plateau, creating an environment rich in beauty, history and geological fascination. It is a dual World Heritage site, protected for both its natural and cultural significance. Its landscape is diverse. Herb groves and beech forests give way to barren tussock-dotted desert and stark grey lava flow mountains slope away from their snowy peaks to broad plateaus where hot springs steam and bubble. A vital part of any North Island vacation itinerary, the park provides a range of adventures through all seasons. Two of New Zealand’s largest ski fields, Whakapapa and Turoa, are on the magnificent slopes of Mount Ruapehu and skiing and snowboarding here has the added attraction of fun on an active volcanoe! There is not only winter enjoyment to be had in this remarkable area. Tourism operators provide a myriad of activities in and around the national park and there is plenty of excellent accommodation available from camping grounds to luxurious lodges. Hiking and tramping are popular pursuits in Tongariro National Park and there are a number of great walks to do, not least of all the Tongariro Crossing. As in the case of all hikes in New Zealand, please be well prepared and ask local operators for advice and assistance as the terrain can be difficult and the weather can, even in the warmer months, become severe.
