Tongariro National Park is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site. The park is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes, including the iconic active volcanoes of Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu, as well as its diverse ecosystems and rich Māori cultural heritage.
Location
Tongariro National Park is located in the central North Island of New Zealand, approximately 330 km south of Auckland and 320 km north of Wellington.
Opening Hours
Tongariro National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, some facilities and services may have limited opening hours or be closed during the winter months.
Highlights
- Three active volcanoes: Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu
- Famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing hiking trail
- Diverse landscapes, including volcanic craters, turquoise lakes, and alpine meadows
- Skiing and snowboarding at Mount Ruapehu
- Māori cultural sites and significance
Activities
- Hiking and trekking, including the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Skiing and snowboarding at Mount Ruapehu’s Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas
- Scenic drives and sightseeing
- Fishing and kayaking on the park’s rivers and lakes
- Visiting Māori cultural sites and learning about the area’s history
Admission Fees
Entry to Tongariro National Park is free. However, there are fees for some activities, such as skiing and guided tours.
Facilities
- Visitor centers at Whakapapa and Turangi
- Accommodation options, including campgrounds, lodges, and hotels
- Ski facilities at Mount Ruapehu
- Restaurants, cafes, and shops
- Public restrooms and parking areas
Accessibility
Tongariro National Park offers a range of accessible facilities and activities, including wheelchair-accessible trails and accommodations. However, due to the nature of the terrain, some areas of the park may be challenging for visitors with mobility concerns.
How to Get There
Tongariro National Park can be reached by car, bus, or organized tour:
- By car: approximately 4 hours drive south of Auckland or 4 hours drive north of Wellington
- By bus: regular bus services operate from major cities to nearby towns like Turangi and Ohakune
- Organized tours: many tour operators offer trips to Tongariro National Park from major cities
Nearby Attractions
- Taupo and Lake Taupo
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Rotorua geothermal attractions
- Whanganui National Park
- Egmont National Park
Insider Tips
- Check weather conditions and volcanic activity alerts before your visit
- Bring warm, layered clothing, as weather can change quickly in the mountains
- Book accommodations and guided tours in advance, especially during peak season
- Allow enough time to fully explore the park and its many attractions
What Visitors Say
Visitors to Tongariro National Park are consistently in awe of the park’s stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse outdoor activities. Many describe the Tongariro Alpine Crossing as a challenging but rewarding experience, with breathtaking views that make it a must-do for hiking enthusiasts.
For more highlights and tour reviews see real experiences from our guests: The Road Trip Testimonials.
Photos and Videos
For photos and videos of Tongariro National Park, visit the official Department of Conservation website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/central-north-island/places/tongariro-national-park/
Contact Information
Tongariro National Park Visitor Centree
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/central-north-island/places/tongariro-national-park/