North Island

Tongariro Northern Circuit

44.9km
3-4 days
Challenging

About This Track

Experience New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual World Heritage Site on this spectacular volcanic traverse. Walk through otherworldly landscapes of active volcanoes, emerald lakes, steaming vents, and ancient lava flows.

Track Highlights

Emerald Lakes volcanic craters

Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom)

Red Crater views

Active volcanic landscapes

Dual UNESCO World Heritage Site

Day by Day Itinerary

1
Whakapapa Village to Mangatepopo Hut

Walk across alpine tussock and volcanic terrain to the base of Mount Ngauruhoe.

Accommodation: Mangatepopo Hut (20 bunks)
2
Mangatepopo Hut to Oturere Hut

Cross the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing via Red Crater and Emerald Lakes.

Accommodation: Oturere Hut (26 bunks)
3
Oturere Hut to Waihohonu Hut

Traverse the eastern Oturere Valley through unique volcanic desert landscape.

Accommodation: Waihohonu Hut (28 bunks)
4
Waihohonu Hut to Whakapapa Village

Complete the circuit through beech forest and across the Tama Lakes saddle.

Accommodation: End of track

Huts & Campsites

Mangatepopo Hut
hut
Oturere Hut
hut
Waihohonu Hut
hut
Mangatepopo Campsite
campsite
Oturere Campsite
campsite
Waihohonu Campsite
campsite