Tongariro National Park

Ranging from the deeply aromatic herb fields to pristine rain forests, tranquil alpine lakes to desert-like plateau, bubbling hot springs and active volcanoes, the Tongariro National Park is a land of contrast, uniqueness and truly remarkable.

Originally gifted to the people of New Zealand on the 23 September 1887, Tongariro National Park has increased in size from the original 2,640 hectares to its present size of approximately 79,598 hectares. Tongariro was the first national park formed in New Zealand and the fourth in the world.

The park is centred on three active volcanoes: Tongariro (1,968 metres), Ruapehu (2,797 metres), and Ngauruhoe (2,290metres). Traditionally Ngauruhoe has erupted at least every 20 years, although the last eruption was in 1975. Mt Tongariro's active Red Crater last emitted ash in 1926. More than 60 eruptions from the craters have been recorded since 1945.

In recognition of the land’s natural and cultural significance it became the first national park in New Zealand and the fourth in the world.  It is also one of the few dual listed World Heritage parks.  The dramatic scenery and incomparable landforms take centre stage on the world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Mt Ruapehu is the highest point in the North Island and, like Tongariro, its history began before the last ice age. The eight named glaciers on Mt Ruapehu are the only glaciers in the North Island. Ruapehu has a permanent cover of snow and ice, including eight glaciers.  Ruapehu has the only commercial ski fields in the North Island.

Approximately one million people visit Tongariro National Park each year, with summer visitors now outnumbering winter visitors as they take advantage of the excellent tramping and walking opportunities.

Temperatures at Whakapapa Village can be as cold as -10°C or as warm as 30°C. At Whakapapa the yearly rainfall is about 2,200 mm, while on the Desert Road side it is only 1,250 mm.

Whakapapa Village is New Zealand's highest settlement with permanent residents. The ski lodges at Whakapapa skifield make up what is called Iwikau Village, named after one of the earlier Tuwharetoa Maori chiefs. The first club lodge was built by Ruapehu Ski Club in 1923.

The park has a number of 24 bunk tramping huts:

• Ketetahi (1,450 metres)
• Oturere (1,360 metres)
• Mangatepopo (1,190 metres)
• Waihohonu (1,120 metres)
• Rangipo (1,600 metres)
• Mangaehuehu (1,300 metres)
• Blyth (1,400 metres)
• Mangaturuturu (1,250 metres)
• Whakapapiti (1,260 metres)

 

In January 1991 Tongariro National Park was declared a World Heritage site, in recognition of its outstanding natural characteristics. In 1994 the Park was also granted Cultural World Heritage status, in recognition of its cultural significance and history.

For more information about chartered trips on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, please contact us for more information.