The other-worldly volcanic landscape of Ruapehu is ready for action in summer or winter with a host of amazing sights, outdoor activities and gourmet dining.

The Ruapehu region, named after the sacred Mt Ruapehu (rua “pit”, pehu “to explode”), offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure and activities with its landscape of mountains, deserts, lakes, pristine rivers, volcanoes, rich farmland and native flora and fauna. Deep in the heart of Lord of the Rings country, a high-altitude plateau is watched over by three volcanic mountains: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. You can even ski on an active volcano during the winter months! Indulge your culinary sensibilities with a gourmet lunch at a lodge where presidents and princesses have stayed, or savour the taste of a gleaming Rainbow Trout freshly caught in a mountain-fed stream – from majestic landscapes to culinary excellence, you’ll find it all in Ruapehu.

Destination-nz.com highlights

Feel like Frodo and be awe-inspired at the sight of the imposing silhouette of Mt Ngauruhoe in Tongariro National Park rising above you – this volcano starred as Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Ski on an active volcano during the winter season – the Turoa and Whakapapa ski areas are both situated on Mt Ruapehu. Get a new perspective on how visually stunning this landscape really is as you enjoy a scenic flight over the Ruapehu region. Be inspired by real soldiers’ stories as you discover New Zealand’s military history at the Army Museum in Waiouru.

Notable culture

The name Tongariro comes from the Maori tonga (south wind) and riro (carried away). According to Maori legend, a famous tohunga (priest) by the name of Mgatoro-i-rangi was stuck on the freezing summit, perilously close to death. With the cry that he was being ‘carried away by the south wind’, he called for his sisters in Hawaiki to bring fire an save him.

Moment in history

In September 1887, Te Heuheu Tukino IV (Horonuku), the Paramount Chief of local Maori tribe Ngati Tuwharetoa, gifted the peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe to the people of New Zealand, making Tongariro the nation’s first national park.

The iconic experience

Pull on your hiking boots and set out on the Tongariro Crossing – a 17km walk through an other-worldly landscape of volcanic landforms; it’s widely regarded as New Zealand’s best one-day hike.

Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More