A Half Day Tongariro Alpine Experience
Join us for a walk through the Mangatepopo Valley, at the foot of the majestic Mt Tongariro, and enjoy the chance to take in the majesty of this active volcanic massif, amongst lava flows that have poured down from the ever impressive Mt Ngauruhoe.
Learn of past eruptions as well as more recent events, its significance to the local Maori and the history of the first National Park in New Zealand, as we head up to the base of Mt Tongariro. Enjoy a hot drink and snack along the way as our friendly, knowledgeable guides bring this landscape to life.
Will we see those famous Emerald lakes? Not on this trip, those views are the reward for those who commit a whole day to climbing the mountain!
Lake Rotopounamu
This absolute gem of a walk is in stunning native forest, nestled on the flanks of beautiful Mt Pihanga. The pristine forest is home to an abundance of native bird life.
This really is one of the best walks in this area. Fine specimens of some of New Zealand’s most primitive trees, surrounding the serene Lake Rotoponamu.
A well maintained walking track around this lake provides a wonderful snap shot of New Zealand in any weather. Allow two and a half or three hours as there is a lot to see and learn about.
We are so very lucky to have this fantastic walk so close to Turangi in the northern-most part of Tongariro National Park.
Ohinepango Explorer
A fabulous blend of history, natural beauty, and relatively easy walking, for a half -day adventure.
The crystal clear Ohinepango Springs never fail to impress, while the historic hut reminds us of the rich history of our first National Park.
This five hour experience only requires moderate fitness, but enjoys some of the most expansive and breathtaking scenery in the Tongariro National Park.
From the fringes of the Rangipo Desert, walk the historic coach road to the crystal clear Ohinepango Springs, before stepping back in time to the earliest days of mountain recreation at the historic Waihohonu Hut.
Mount Urchin
Located in the Kaimanawa Forest Park, the half day hike up to Mt Urchin offers a unique perspective of the volcanoes of the Central North Island.
A traditional New Zealand “tramping” track, the Urchin track climbs up through a mix of ancient native hardwood and gnarled beech trees. This native forest is home to many species of bird. The change in vegetation is noticeable we move through different forest zones before emerging above the tree line into the alpine zone of mosses, tussock grass and mountain daisy. Above the bush line we have panoramic views extending around from the eastern side Desert Road, the three volcanoes of Tongariro National Park, as well as Lakes Rotoaira and Taupo.
Tongariro Short Gems
Easy walks in and around the varied landscapes of the Whakapapa area of Mt Ruapehu. There are numerous well formed tracks, which provide spectacular scenery.
Half day options might include a visit to spectacular Taranaki Falls, the unique Silica Rapids, an overview at the Whakapapa Visitor Centre, or maybe even a chance to have a quick look at a ski-field on an active volcano!
There are plenty of choices for a half day, give us a call, and we will happily discuss some options, or simply make it up on the day.