Tongariro Crossing :: Described as one of the best one-day hikes in New Zealand, from alpine meadow to mountain summit with stunning volcanic features along the way. You will walk across a lunar landscape of craters, scattered pumice, active volcanoes, mountain springs, lava flows, emerald lakes, piles of scoria and statue-like mounds of volcanic rock - all testament to the forces that were unleashed to create this volcanic desert. It will take about 8-9 hours to allow time for photos and any side tracks, lunch and breaks. Essential info: One way trek from Mangatepopo Road [off SH47] to Ketetahi Road [of SH46]. Difficulty Grade is Moderate + Tops. Average Rating Exceptional! Length is 13km [8 - 9 hours]. Highest point is 1850m and lowest point is 770m. This trek has 2 huts with toilets. We can arrange bookings for you. Northern Circuit :: Winding its way over Mt Tongariro and around Mt Ngauruhoe is the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the ‘Great Walks’ of New Zealand. This walk passes through unique and stunning landforms which include volcanic craters and glacial valleys. A range of trips can be planned around the Tongariro Northern Circuit. Day trips, overnight trips, or a three to four day walk around the complete circuit. The safest and most popular time of year to walk the Tongariro Northern Circuit is during the summer months (December to March) when the tracks are normally clear of snow and the weather is less severe. Essential info: accessed from the following roadends: Whakapapa Village; Mangatepopo Road; Ketetahi Road; Desert Road; Round the Mountain Track. Several operators provide transport to some of the roadends in the park. We can arrange bookings for you. Lake Rotopounamu :: Rotopounamu ["greenstone lake"] nestles on the side of Mt Pihanga. This beautiful lake is a special favorite of tree lovers, birdwatchers, walkers and swimmers. It is a 20 minutes walk to lake one way, or 2 hours around the lake circuit's 5 km loop track. 11 km from Turangi off SH 47, carpark signposted on the south side of Te Ponanga Saddle. Beginning opposite the carpark the track winds gently uphill. At the junction the track to the left goes to Ten Minute Beach which is a pleasant picnic and swimming spot in summer. To walk around the lake turn right at the junction and follow a short section of metalled track before dropping down towards Five Minute Beach. Whakapapa Walks :: These walks are either accessible on foot from Whakapapa Village or require a short drive to the start of the track. Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a World Heritage Area. World Heritage status recognises the area’s significant Maori cultural associations and outstanding volcanic features. Before starting out, trekkers should check the weather forecast and track conditions -Tongariro National Park weather is extremely changeable all year round. Be prepared for bad weather at all times. There are 18 different walks in the Whakapapa region. Some of the walks around Whakapapa village include: Whakapapa Nature Walk [15 minutes]; Taranaki Falls [2 hours]; Whakapapanui Walk [2 hours]; Whakapapaiti Valley [4-5 hours]; Tama Lakes [5-6 hours]; Silica Rapids [2.5 hours]. Ruapehu Crater Trek :: This is NOT a marked route. The Crater Lake, below the summit of Ruapehu disappeared during the eruptions of Mt Ruapehu in 1995/96. People wishing to make the climb to the crater should have a map and be well equipped. Boots, sunglasses and weatherproof clothing are essential items. This alpine environment is renowned for extremely changeable weather. The climb is not recommended in winter without mountaineering experience and equipment [such as ice axes and crampons]. Icy or ‘white out’ conditions can make the climb a serious undertaking. 5 Day Round The Mountain Circuit :: "Round the Mountain" is the name given to the 4 to 6 day tramp around Mount Ruapehu. For those seeking solitude, magnificent mountain views and a backcountry experience; the Round the Mountain Circuit is ideal. It can be seen to be a more remote alternative to the popular "Tongaririo Northern Circuit". The Round the Mountain Circuit traverses a myriad of landscapes, ranging from mountain beech forest, tussock-country and alpine herb fields; to desertlands and glacial river valleys. Although a greater part of the track is in an alpine environment, there are no major alpine passes. Difficult walking and/or navigation can be expected during winter months, as snow can cover the track. Full alpine gear should be carried during this period [ice axe, crampons, and adequate cold weather clothing]. Popular Activity Locations :: Tongariro Circuit, Northern Circuit, Lake Rotopounamu, Whakapapa, Round The Mountain Circuit, & Ruapehu Crater Trek.