Overview
Tongariro National Park is New Zealand's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to three active volcanoes: Mount Ruapehu (the North Island's highest peak at 2,797m), Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngauruhoe. The park draws hikers for the famous Tongariro Crossing—one of New Zealand's Great Walks—and winter visitors to the island's two main skifields on Ruapehu.
Day Trips · Museums · Nature · Skiing · Trekking
Before you go
Safety
Vehicle theft is common at Mangatepopo carpark. Leave vehicles at Whakapapa Village instead. Volcanic activity can occur without warning on Ruapehu.
Transport
Rent a car or use shuttles to access the park. Shuttles ($15) operate between Whakapapa Village and the Tongariro Crossing trailheads. Train services stop at National Park village and Ohakune on the Wellington-Auckland main trunk line.
Water
Do not drink from hut tanks or streams without treatment. Tanks may contain giardia, and streams can carry volcanic heavy metals.
Weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly year-round. Check MetService forecasts before any activity and carry extra layers, rain gear, and emergency supplies even on clear days.
