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Tongariro Northern Circuit
Where is it?
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Located in the Central North Island, the Tongariro National Park is the closest national park to Auckland. It’s easily accessed from Ōhakune, Tūrangi, Taupō and SH 1. The circular Great Walk starts near Whakapapa Village.
Terrain
Moderate-to-high level of fitness and clothing suitable for alpine conditions required.
Track Overview
Tongariro Northern Circuit is a Great Walk and a loop track that can be walked in either direction. The track is well marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep, rough or muddy. Starting at Whakapapa Village, hike to the Mangatepopo Valley. See Pukekaikiore, one of the older vents of the Tongariro Complex of explosion craters, lava flows, and volcanic cones. On the second day, hike through the valley and then climb up to the Red Crater (1868m) before descending to the Emerald Lakes and down into the Oturere Valley. The next day follow the track along the foothills of Ngāuruhoe. After crossing the Waihōhonu Stream, continue through beech-forested valley, then climb over the ridge to reach Waihōhonu Hut in the next valley. On the last day, hike alongside the Waihōhonu Stream and up to the Tama Saddle. Take an optional side trip to Tama Lakes, then continue to Whakapapa Village.
Need to Know
No dogs, this is a kiwi area
TIME & DISTANCE: 3-4 days; 43km
FITNESS: Moderate-high fitness required
TERRAIN: Can be steep at times
SEASON: Late Oct to late Apr
Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz/Hotels
Main Image: Mt Ngāuruhoe © Getty Images
