Home to the Tongariro National Park and the Whanganui National Park, the Ruapehu region is one of the most visited areas in New Zealand and it is not hard to understand why thousands of visitors journey to this majestic region every year.
Boasting some of the most breathtaking and unique landscapes in the world, the Ruapehu region is a haven for adventure enthusiasts all year round. During the summer months there are numerous treks to enjoy throughout the area, particularly on the northern side of the mountain, in and around the Whakapapa Village.
Starting in Mangatepopo, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as one of the world’s greatest one day walks offering spectacular uninterrupted views and a striking volcanic landscape. Multi-day treks such as the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the great walks of New Zealand which stretches over Mt Tongariro and around Mt Ngauruhoe, attract many keen trampers to the area.
Mountain biking is a popular activity with a number of trails catering to all ability levels from the leisure rider to the hard core downhill racers. The 42nd Traverse is one of the most challenging rides with a total distance of 46km and an overall descent of 570 meters. The Central North Island Rail Trail and the Mountains to the Sea trail, which are two of the seven trails making up the New Zealand Cycle Trail Project, are also found in the region.
The Whanganui River provides amazing canoe and kayak adventures with trips available from one to five days and these can either be self guided trips or done with a tour operator. If moving along at paddling speed is a little slow, a jet boat ride on the river may be just the thing.
Dominating the central North Island is Mt Ruapehu, home to New Zealand’s two largest ski areas of Whakapapa, located on the north-western slopes and spread across 1050 hectares, and Turoa, situated on the south-western slopes, boasting the country’s highest lift and the longest vertical descent in Australasia.
Mt Ruapehu provides an extra twist for enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders in the fact that it is the largest active volcano in New Zealand. The most memorable eruption in recent times was 1995 in which many skiers and boarders got a big surprise during their day on the snow.
In recent years Mt Ngauruhoe has also staked its claim to fame as it appeared as ‘Mount Doom’ in the Oscar winning trilogy “Lord of the Rings’ from acclaimed New Zealand Director, Sir Peter Jackson.
The village of Ohakune is well known for hosting events such as the Mardi Gras and other music festivals during the winter season which often sees the town at maximum capacity with thousands of revelers enjoying the carnival atmosphere.
Also within the Ruapehu region is the town of Waiouru, located on State Highway 1. Home to the New Zealand Army base, visitors have the chance to learn about the nation’s military history and view the extensive collection of medals at the Waiouru Army Museum.
A range of accommodation options are available throughout the Ruapehu region, from shared lodges to private luxury chalets and a variety of bars and restaurants will ensure that visitors to the region enjoy their time off the mountain.
