Volcanic Plateau

  •  
    Multi-day Hiking
  •  
    Rafting
  •  
    Touring
  •  
    Kayaking
  •  
    Caving
  •  
    Biking
  •  
    Skiing
  •  
    Scuba Diving
Start: 7:00am. Auckland - SkyTower Visitor Centre, corner Federal & Victoria Streets.
Finish: Auckland 7:00pm (approx.) OR Wellington 7:00pm (train option)
Length: 5 days
Grade:
D (Uneven track surfaces and river crossings.)
Accom: Backcountry Huts, Camping
Price: NZ$745
Extra Costs: $35/day kitty
Departs: Tuesdays - see see departures
Highlights: Experience the best of New Zealand's volcanic zone. Inhale the aromas of Rotorua, discover hot streams, and hike along lakes and among volcanoes. This is the perfect trip if you're short on time or you like a bit more comfort as the camping is optional.

Day 1: Morning drive to Rotorua. Raft the wild Kaituna River (optional extra) or walk the scenic track. Hike through bush alongside tranquil Lake Okataina. Attend a traditional Maori concert and dinner (optional extra) or check out the local restaurants. 1 hour rafting and 2 hours hiking.

Day 2: Head south and be amazed at Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland (optional extra). Bathe in a naturally hot river flowing through the bush. Peer over Huka falls before taking a relaxing swim in Lake Taupo. Hike across alpine grasslands to hut/camp in Tongariro National Park. 1.5 hours hiking.

Day 3: Hike to Oturere hut/camp through an extraordinary landscape of active volcanoes and turquoise lakes. 4 hours hiking.

Day 4: Hike up to Emerald Lakes and across a plateau, perhaps climbing one of the volcanoes (unguided section). Guzzle a well-earned beer at a lodge with amazing views of the volcanoes. 6-8 hours hiking.

Day 5: Relaxing morning if you need it. Visit the Department of Conservation display centre, otherwise hike to Taranaki Falls. Leave lodge at noon to catch the Overland train to Wellington. Others travel north to Auckland with an optional get off at Waitomo (3:00pm), reaching Auckland at approximately 7:00pm. 2 hours hiking.
 
click for a detailed map
Thank you for a wonderful trip, getting back to nature, appreciating the little things and getting to places I couldn't go alone.

Elisabeth, Denmark

More Reviews
Brochure, Newsletter and Facebook links

Did you know?

Geologically speaking, the Tongariro volcanoes are relatively young, formed 2.5 million years ago during eruptions of lava and scoria.

Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service and Tourism Industry Association Member
Free Brochure Join Newsletter Facebook Community Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service Tourism Industry Association Member Tourism Distinction Award Winners