Things to Do in Tongariro
6 activities and experiences for backpackers.
Complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19.4 km, 7-8 hours one-way; shuttle required)
Hike the Taranaki Falls loop track
Hike the Taranaki Falls loop track (2 hours, free)
Multi-day Tongariro Northern Circuit
Multi-day Tongariro Northern Circuit (3-4 days, DOC hut passes required)
Side-trip to the summit of Mount Ngauruhoe — add 3 hours return from the Crossing route
Side-trip to the summit of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom) — add 3 hours return from the Crossing route
Ski or snowboard at Whakapapa or Turoa in winter
Ski or snowboard at Whakapapa or Turoa in winter (Jun-Oct)
Visit Tawhai Falls — 20-minute walk
Visit Tawhai Falls (Gollum's Pool from Lord of the Rings) — 20-minute walk