Located on the edge of Tongariro National Park, we're close to a wide range of natural attractions and adventures activities. From hiking to skiing or snowboard and mountain biking to river rafting, our area has something to offer anyone in every season.

For inspiration on planning your time in our area, take a look at this suggested itinerary for a short getaway to Tongariro National Park, or see below for just some of the things to do when you stay with us:

Hiking

Hiking is a year-round activity in and around Tongariro National Park, with a multitude of tracks to suit anyone's abilities and sense of adventure all year round. We created this list of what we believe are the best long hikes in and around Tongariro National Park, which of course includes the popular Tongariro Alpine Crossing. 

Skiing, snowboard or snow play

With Mt Ruapehu on our doorstep, we are close to the two largest ski areas in New Zealand - Whakapapa and Tūroa. This means we are the ideal place to stay if you to enjoy the thrill of skiing or snowboarding on an active volcano, or just want to touch the snow for the first time. Whakapapa is also home to the recently open Sky Waka gondola, which runs year-round and transports you to snow faster than ever! Read more about snow adventures on Mt Ruapehu here.

Biking

Mountain and road biking are becoming ever more popular activities around Tongariro National Park. You can get on your bike at the lodge and ride directly to two family-friendly mountain bike tracks – the downhill Fishers Track or the Marton Sash & Door loop along a historic bush tramway. Or we can help you arrange a shuttle to the historic Old Coach Road ride between Horopito to Ohakune. Further afield, the classic 42 Traverse is an great option for more experience mountain bikers, while the cycling from our lodge to Whakapapa Village or even to the top of Bruce Road is a challenging but worthwhile journey.

Family adventures

In addition to hiking, biking, skiing, boarding or playing in the snow, there are plenty of other fun family activities in our area. You can enjoy a gentle put on the mini-golf course at Schnapps Bar in National Park Village or reach for new heights at the indoor climbing centre next door at National Park Backpackers. The Roy Turner Memorial Playground on Buddo Street is a treat for kids of all ages with its state-of-the-art playground equipment, and is a short stroll from our lodge - you can even hop over the back fence to get there!

Quad bike rides

Enjoy an exhilarating off-road experience with a guided quad bike (ATV) trip through stunning scenery with Ruapehu Adventure Rides. You can either ride your our quad bike (full training provided!) or hop onto a all-terrain buggy with an expert driver.  

Water activities

Tongariro National Park is surrounded by water with the Tongariro River to the east, the Whanganui River to the west and Lake Taupo to the north. Here are just some of the water activites you can enjoy in our area:

  • White waterrafting with Tongariro River Rafting on the Tongariro River in Turangi. They operate year-round and and you may even spot an endangered and very rare, whio or blue duck
  • Jet boat or canoe tours on the Whanganui River with Whanganui River Adventures in Pipiriki to visit the Bridge to Nowhere and experience the remote hills and bush clad valleys of the Whanganui National Park
  • Go fishing! Trout fishing is a must-do for avid anglers visiting us. We can arrange a trip for you with local fishing guides.