Kia Ora. Welcome to Ruapehu.
Located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Ruapehu is a beautiful backdrop for adventure, family and wellness - visit our greater outdoors for a truly immersive authentic experience.
Things to See & Do in Ruapehu
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Gift Our Greater Outdoors
Gift an Experience This Summer
New Zealand's Forgotten World
Explore the epic landscapes and changing scenery of New Zealand's Forgotten World.
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Eat, Drink & Shop
Ruapehu is home to first class eating establishments and unique boutique shopping experiences.
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Where is Ruapehu?
Centrally located in New Zealand’s North Island, Ruapehu is easily accessible through multiple directions by road or by air. This makes it your perfect holiday destination on it’s own or combined with another trip plan.
- 4 hr drive from Auckland
- 1hr 30mins from Taupo Airport
- 4hr 30min drive from Wellington
Upcoming Events
01 Jan - 31 Jan 22
Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
The Mahi Aroha Summer Programme offers a range of events within the Central Plateau and Tongariro districts from January 1-31. The programme is hosted by the Department of Conservation alongside local community group Project Tongariro.
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31 Dec - 01 Jan 22
New Years Celebrations at Chateau Tongariro Hotel.
Welcome in 2022 at our swinging New Year’s Eve Celebration. Be wined, dined, and dance the night away to your favourite hits with our DJ John McGough before pausing to count down the last few seconds on 2021 at midnight.
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25 Dec - 26 Dec 21
Christmas Day Dining at The Chateau Tongariro Hotel
Join us for a delightful lunch between 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM or dinner between 5:30 PM and 9:00 PM. Indulge yourself this Christmas and make it an unforgettable one. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and dairy free options are available on request, please do advise us when you make your booking.
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22 Jan 22
Lake Rotoponamu Walk - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Join Project Tongariro volunteers as they walk around Lake Rotoponamu checking rodent traps and wētā hotels!
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19 Jan 22
Te Porere Redoubt Cultural Visit - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Come and explore the Te Porere Redoubt with a local Ngati Hikairo representative.
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15 Jan 22
Blue Duck Station Predator Control Workshop - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
At this event you will head down to Blue Duck Station and learn about how they are conserving, endangered wildlife and preserving the history of the area.
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14 Jan 22
Bat Evening with Owhango Alive - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Join Owhango Alive for an educational evening about bats and other local wildlife.
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14 Jan 22
Okupata Caves - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Hillary Outdoors staff will guide you through an underground stream, wade through water and discover glow worms, lime stone and more!
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06 Jan 22
Tūroa Alpine South East Basin Meander - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Have you experienced Tūroa in the summer? Now is your chance. You will see a completely different perspective – and we will tell you some stories on the way.
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01 Jan 22
New Years Day Kite Flying and Celebration - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Fly a kite beneath the peaks of Mt Tongariro and Mt Mt Ngāuruhoe! Gold coin donation to make a paper kite or $10 for a larger, sturdier and colourful pre-assembled kite.
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07 May 22
T42 Central Plateau
One of New Zealand’s most iconic events, the award-winning T42 takes you into the crisp alpine air and pristine environs of the Tongariro National Park. Find your perfect escape in this off-road adventure.
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02 Jan 22
Whangaehu Lahar Volcanic Floods - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Discover the volcanic history of Mt Ruapehu on this off track hike down the lahar path.
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12 Mar 22
Ring Of Fire and Tussock Traverse
For the first time, Ring of Fire will combine the much loved Tussock Traverse event offerings of 6km, 12km, 21km, and 32km as part of a super day in the Tongariro National Park.
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22 Jan 22
The Goat Tongariro Adventure Run
The Goat is an exhilarating adventure run from Whakapapa to Tūroa Ski Fields on the Round the Mountain track. The Goat Tongariro sells out every year so don’t be a silly Goat, and make sure you get your entry early to secure your spot.
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28 Jan 22
Maunga Clean Up - Mahi Aroha Summer Programme
Take a hike on New Zealand's largest active volcano and help pick up rubbish that didn't quite make it to the bin! Afterwards enjoy a complimentary ride on the Sky Waka gondola.
find out moreRoaming Ruapehu
Walk This Way: The Best Walks and Hikes to Explore in Ruapehu
The best walks and hikes to discover in Ruapehu including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the Tongariro Northern Circuit, the Whanganui Journey, the Te Araroa Trail and so much more.
find out moreWhy Visit Our Greater Outdoors?
AUTHENTIC New Zealand
A region which offers a multitude of experiences ranging that epitomise New Zealand’s pure outdoors.
INTERACTIVE MAP
THE BEST VALUE
Find your happy place. From camping and backpackers, to luxury lodges and chateaus, Ruapehu has just about every style of bed (and breakfast) you can imagine.
DEALS & PACKAGES
FAMILY FUN
Cuddle a carrot, pat an alpaca, inspect a T-Rex ...you'll be amazed at what your family can get up to in Ruapehu!
ALL FAMILY ACTIVITIES
The connection
World renowned Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park set the backdrop for truly unique New Zealand experiences.
EXPLORE RUAPEHU