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2024 Waiouru Military Area Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Popular Attractions
Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park
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Mount Ruapehu
Mount Ruapehu, located in the central North Island of New Zealand, is the largest active volcano in the country and one of its most popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Standing at 2,797 meters (9,177 feet), it’s the highest peak in the North Island and is part of the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, skiing resorts, and scenic hiking trails, Mount Ruapehu is a hub for year-round adventure. Mount Ruapehu is an active stratovolcano that last erupted in 2007. Its summit houses a crater lake known as Te Wai ā-moe, which periodically warms up due to volcanic activity. When not in a state of eruption, the lake is accessible for guided tours and provides a stunning, otherworldly view with its milky, turquoise waters surrounded by volcanic rock. In the summer, Mount Ruapehu is a popular destination for climbers. Its rugged terrain and volcanic features provide an exciting challenge for mountaineers. Several routes lead to the summit, offering views of the North Island and, on a clear day, the chance to see the surrounding volcanoes, Mount Taranaki, and even the distant Lake Taupo. Mount Ruapehu’s combination of volcanic activity, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation makes it one of New Zealand’s most exciting and diverse natural attractions. Whether you’re there for skiing, hiking, or simply soaking in the stunning views, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Tongariro: Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings.
Mount Doom is where the hobbits threw the One Ring.
The trail is 19.4 kilometers long (possibly longer). On the day of the hike, temperatures ranged from 4°C to -7°C.
It rained the day before, and there was snow on the summit. The trail may not always be open the next day.
Check with the counter at 7 AM to see if the shuttle bus is running. Since we only stayed one night, we decided to go regardless. Luckily, we didn't book the shuttle bus. Driving ourselves for 15 minutes cost 1100 per person, saving 4400 for food. 😆
The parking lot has a maximum stay of four hours. If you plan to reach the summit, the round trip will definitely exceed this time, so booking the shuttle bus is necessary. When we returned to the parking lot and saw our car, we were relieved it wasn't locked or ticketed. We felt immense gratitude at that moment.
Starting the hike felt like embarking on the quest from The Lord of the Rings. The surroundings were dry yellow grass due to the volcanic activity, with black and rust-red stones and soil. From the initial desolation to the misty and snowy plains, then icy paths leading to the snowy summit, the changing scenery in the volcanic terrain was truly a marvel of nature.
The highlight of my life!! NZ Tongariro crossing
The tongariro crossing was honestly incredible. You get the chance to hike up an active volcano, It was around a 10 hour hike. The hike is not easy but the views you have along the way are breathtaking and 100% worth it. Once you get to the top you realise what you have achieved and everything feels so surreal! #newzealand #newzealandtravel #Hiking #Volcano #Tongarirocrossing #Travel
Mount "DOOM" In Its Glory | Tongariro
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Tongariro National Park is not only New Zealand's oldest national park but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for both its natural and cultural significance. The park is dominated by three active volcanoes – Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe (famously known as Mount Doom from "The Lord of the Rings" movies), and Mount Ruapehu. The volcanic terrain includes craters, lava flows, and diverse geological formations.
Considered one of the best day hikes in the world, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging 19.4-kilometer trek that takes you through volcanic landscapes, past emerald lakes, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Tongariro National Park holds great importance in Māori culture. The mountains within the park are considered sacred, and there are cultural sites and legends associated with the region. Like, Ngatoroirangi and the Creation of the Central Plateau:
Ngatoroirangi, a prominent figure in Māori mythology, is credited with bringing fire to the region. During his journey, he ascended Mount Tongariro and, facing bitter cold, called upon the fire deity Auahitūroa. In response, the mountain erupted, providing warmth to Ngatoroirangi. As a result of the volcanic activity, the landscape of the central North Island, including the formation of craters and lakes, is said to have been shaped. Another one says that the mountains of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu are said to represent a love triangle in Māori mythology. Tongariro, the tallest of the three, fell in love with Pihanga, a smaller mountain located to the northwest. Ngauruhoe, however, also desired Pihanga. The mountains engaged in a great battle, with eruptions and spewing ash symbolizing their conflicts. In the end, Tongariro won Pihanga's heart, and today, the three mountains stand as a testament to this legendary love story.
Despite the harsh volcanic environment, the park supports a variety of plant and animal life. The lower slopes feature beech forests, and alpine plants thrive in the higher elevations. Unique bird species, such as the rare blue duck (whio), inhabit the park.
Tips and Tricks ⁉️
🌦️Weather can change rapidly in the the National Park. Usually you will be warned about potential risks and your hike will be permitted only if the weather forecast will be deemed safe. However if the unforseen happens and you're left with a choice to turn back or to push forward, we suggest on doing former. Believe us when we say, the results can be catastrophic.
🥪20km hike is not a joke. Prepare well. Pack food, snacks, enough of water to support yourself through the day. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you find yourself in a pinch.
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