We took the chairlift up and got a discount for senior citizens. Spent some time in the cafe and surrondings from where you can make a hike to a ridge-saddle and another top. Bring water if you want to do that and be prepaired for sudden cold clouds/wind. From the cafe we walked down and visited some of the LOTR... More

If you are reading this from overseas take it from me as a well travelled kiwi this is a must do and see and experience in NZ as well as Queenstown. Never been to Ruapehu and been disappointed even if you can't ski or snowboard you can go to the chateau Tongariro for a high tea or go to the... More

There was no snow as it was just the start of Autumn but the chairlifts were running as far as the Mt cafe. I had never been on a proper mountain so this was a new experience for me. The chairlift helpers slowed the chair down for me and off we wnt. Surprisingly for me I loved it and felt... More

Visited Mt Ruapehu whilst staying in Taupo. Have driven past it many times and seen it smoking but never been up it until now. Drove up to the bottom of the cable car and parked. Walked around the area where all the ski huts are. Difficult to imagine it when its covered with snow. Lovely views. Don't like heights so... More

This is a great alternative for those who don't have the time or weather to do the Tongariro Crossing. The best time to make your way here is in the morning since the weather can be unpredictable and change very quickly. There is quiet a lot to do so it's worth spending a whole day here. There is a information... More

on our way from Wellington to Taupo, we decided on the spur of the moment on a nice day to detour to Tongariro National Park. There was a helpful I-site in Ohakune, and it was easy enough to drive into the park. Once there, the thing to do is to buy tickets for the chair lift to the top of... More

From the first moment you get a view of the peak on your drive towards Tongariro National Park you are blown away. The closer you get the more beautiful it looks. We went to the visitors centre and the staff were very helpful, they helped us to find a walk which fitted into our schedule and we were disappointed we... More

Two of the chair lifts were running even though it was summer and took us about 3/4 way up the mountain. You get spectacular mountain views as you travel up on the lifts and it's so quiet .Had a hot drink at the cafe at the top. There was even some snow up at the top and toboggins for hire.... More

Even though it was out of season this was a place which was of interest for numerious reasons.Great for walking also photography.