Tackling the Tongariro
From some of the world’s best trout fishing to volcano treks, flightseeing and winter ski areas, the Tongariro/Turangi region has a wealth of outdoor adventures to tackle – and some equally breathtaking river and mountain scenery.
At the heart of the North Island's central volcanic plateau, Tongariro National Park is one of the jewels of the region, with three towering volcanoes at its heart. During summer, walkers and hikers explore the park’s 
rugged landscape, with its tussock plains, volcanoes and waterfalls, while the region’s mighty rivers provide challenges for whitewater rafting, canoeing and fishing.
For a birds-eye view of the towering volcanoes and their colourful crater lakes, you can book a flight with local operator, Mountain Air. This well-established, company has been operating for 18 years from the Chateau Airport at Mt Ruapehu. You can opt for three 
different flights, all of which provide a commentary along with stunning aerial views of this Dual World Heritage Area.
To get up close with New Zealand's largest volcano, take a guided walk to the Crater Lake of Mt Ruapehu with Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. Starting with a scenic chairlift ride to 2020m, an experienced local guide will take you on a spectacular 6 hour journey through stunning alpine scenery to Ruapehu's snowcapped peaks at 2670m. While the walk is not extreme, a little fitness is required, but your effort will be well rewarded with the view from the top. You will have lunch by the Crater Lake while learning about the last major eruption in June 1996 and then have the thrill of sliding down the snow on the upper-most slopes.
A must-see in the area is a visit or stay at the Bayview Chateau Tongariro which sits nestled in the shadow of the park's three volcanoes, and at the very foot of Mt Ruapehu. As you arrive at the Chateau, standing under the grand entrance portico, you know you are somewhere special. Before you, an active volcano looms, dramatic in its beauty. Inside, roaring log fires, the glow of grand chandeliers, sublime cuisine and spectacular mountain views await.
To explore the 
region's other two volcanoes you can take the North Island's most popular day walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 6-7 hour (18.5km) trek passes the cinder cone of Mount Ngauruhoe, the beautiful Red Crater and Emerald and Blue Lakes. Make sure you are fit and properly equipped though – it is a challenging trek and best done during the summer months. You can catch a ride to the start of the Crossing with Tongariro Expeditions, Mountain Shuttle and Matai Shuttles.
During winter (July-October), you can join the skiers and snowboarders heading for Mount Ruapehu – the North Island’s tallest peak – to enjoy the wide open runs of New Zealand's largest two ski areas, Whakapapa and Turoa. Both ski areas cater to all levels of skier or snowboarder, with 
dedicated beginners areas, numerous intermediate to advanced runs and challenging backcountry terrain.
If you want to try your luck at catching a trophy trout, the township of Turangi makes an ideal base. One of the world's great trout rivers - the Tongariro River - runs right along the eastern boundary of Turangi, making it a paradise for anglers from around the globe. Brown and rainbow trout average 4-51bs in these waters, but you don't have to be an expert to enjoy the challenge of landing one. Local guides can offer tuition and guiding, and take you straight to the best spots. For a prime location beside the river, you can check in at Bridge Fishing Lodge and make use of
the lodge's expert fishing advice. Author Zane Grey stayed at Bridge Fishing lodge 79 years ago and fished the Tongariro River, paying homage to it in his book Angler’s Eldorado, and placing Tongariro firmly on the world fishing map.
Daredevils can also ride the rapids on Tongariro River – famous for its whitewater rafting and kayaking thrills. Tongariro River Rafting, on Atirau 
Road in Turangi, offer half-day and multi-day rafting adventures and can also take you raft fishing to help you land a plump rainbow trout.
When you’ve finished your Tongariro adventure, be sure to stop by the tiny township of Tokaanu and relax in the thermal pools on Mangaroa Road – the perfect way to unwind.
Useful links
Accommodation
Activities and Attractions
Images courtesy of Destination Lake Taupo, Bayview Chateau Tongariro, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, Mountain Air and ©Visit Ruapehu.
