Where Adventure Begins…

TAUMARUNUI

Taumarunui is a rural service and shopping centre and the largest town in the Ruapehu District. Located on the Main Trunk railway line, it is known for its railway history, farming, gardens and weaving. Since the early 1900’s Taumarunui has been known as “Taumarunui Heart of the King Country” and even has a song about its early rail history “Taumarunui on the Main Trunk Line”. Taumarunui is the start of the Whanganui Journey, the only river journey that is part of New Zealand’s Great Walks network. As the meeting place of the Whanganui and Ongarue Rivers, Taumarunui was an important centre in Maori history and was originally a Maori settlement and junction for canoe routes.

Canoeing
The Whanganui Journey is the only river trip that is part of the Great Walks networks. While the complete journey from Taumarunui to Pipiriki takes five days, shorter legs can be undertaken. Cultural guided waka tours available.

Golf
For golf lovers the Taumarunui golf course is listed amongst the country’s top 50. Visitors welcome. Phone Taumarunui Golf Club 896 7257.

Jet Boating
A range of half hour and 1-2 hour return trips available to Laurens Lavender Farm, Ercegs Museum and Ohura Falls. Also tailored made trips can be arranged. Contact Taumarunui Jet Tours 896 6055.

Mountain Biking
There are some great mountain bike tracks right through Ruapehu which range from old logging tracks to sealed roads, these include 42 Traverse, Fishers Rd Track and the Piropiro Flats in Pureora Forest Park.

Picnic Spots
There are many beautiful picnic spots, including Cherry Grove (where the Whanganui and Ongarue Rivers meet, signposted from Hakiaha St), Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve (turn left at Owhango onto Omaki Rd when heading south), Ohinepane (down River Rd on SH 43), Taumarunui camping ground (on the banks of the Whanganui River at Manunui).

Raurimu Spiral
View this world famous piece of railway engineering from the lookout on SH 4 at Raurimu. A working miniature model can be viewed at the Taumarunui i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, Hakiaha St.
Daily train trips on the Overlander depart Taumarunui at 12 noon, returning from National Park Village at 1.40pm and arriving at Taumarunui 2.35pm. Subject to availability and trains running to schedule. Book at the Taumarunui i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.

Scenic Drive
A pleasant way to spend a day exploring some of the areas history and heritage is to drive the scenic and historic Forgotten World Highway (SH 43) which heads west from Taumarunui.

Trout Fishing
There are great fishing spots throughout Ruapehu. Within the Taumarunui area the main rivers are, Whanganui River, Whakapapa River, Retaruke River and Ongarue River.

MUSEUMS & COLLECTIONS

Erceg’s Museum
Sadlers Rd off River Rd. A great collection of pioneering and Maori artefacts, phone 896 6365.

Ohura Museum
A wonderful collection that will bring back memories for many. The key is available from Hazel Wilson, phone 893 8782.

WALKS/ HIKES & TREKS

Mangapurua Track
Entrance at Whakahoro, access from SH 4, turn off approx 1.5km after Owhango onto Oio Rd. The trek meets the Whanganui River 30km upstream from Pipiriki. Jet boat transport out can be organised in advance, phone 895 7494.

Manunui Bush Reserve
An area of mature podocarp forest with many large trees on a flat river terrace beside the Whanganui River 4km south of Taumarunui. This reserve adjoins the local camping ground.

Maraekowhai (Whanganui National Park)
Take River Rd for 35km south of Taumarunui then turn on to Tokirima Road for 17km. Ten minute hiking track through pasture and native bush. View the Ohura Falls.

Mt Hikurangi
The prominent flat topped hill north east of Taumarunui. Permission to make the two hour climb to the summit (771m) must be obtained from the Richardson family phone 896 7804.

Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve
At Owhango 20km south of Taumarunui on the banks of the Whakapapa River.

Riverbank Walk
From the Ongarue Bridge, at the north entrance to town following the Whanganui River from Cherry Grove to the camping grounds up to the SH 4 bridge at Matapuna, 1 hour one way. Crossing the bridge, the track continues through the Manunui Bush Reserve.

Sunshine Scenic Reserve
From Morero Tce turn left over Victory Bridge. Track is on the right. A short uphill walk will give you great views of the district on a clear day. Lower section of track easy grade and in excellent condition. Upper section steep in places. Views to the west down the Whanganui River and north over Taumarunui. Excellent displays of glowworms at night in lower area. of track.

Te Peka Reserve Walking Tracks
North entrance to Taumarunui. Over 2kms of excellent easy grade tracks through regenerating and planted forest to the Te Peka Lookout giving spectacular views all round. There are two signposted entry points off SH 4 or visit the lookout, a short walk from the end of Byars Ave. This reserve has been created by a local volunteer envrionment group since mid 1980s.

NATIONAL PARK VILLAGE

National Park Village offers spectacular views of the three volcanoes Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro and it is close to all walks and treks in the northern part of the Park including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
A compact village and handy to many activities on offer, National Park Village has a good range of accommodation, restaurants and bars. It is approximately 10 minutes drive to Whakapapa Village and 20 minutes drive to Mount Ruapehu’s Whakapapa ski area.
Located on the Main Trunk railway line, short return trips through the famous Raurimu Spiral can be arranged between National Park Village and Taumarunui.
Whakahoro, a main access point for the Whanganui National Park and Whanganui River, is approximately 45 minutes drive.

4WD – 42 Traverse
Open to 4WD vehicles between 1 December and 30 April. The area is a kiwi sanctuary and also a multiple use site. Drive carefully and slowly so that you can stop easily. Please stay on the road and contact Whakapapa Visitor Centre for the latest information before you leave. Phone 892 3729, email whakapapavc@doc.govt.nz.

Indoor Climbing Wall
Test your skills at the National Park Village indoor climbing wall. Open daily. Gear is available and instruction is free. Phone 892 2870.

Jet Boating
Guided tours include the Bridge to Nowhere, and the River Queen movie film locations. Short scenic tours can also be tailor made to suit your needs. Jet boat/canoe options available.

Kayaking
Experience the thrill and beauty of the Whakapapa River. Phone Adventure Kayaks 0-800-386 925.

Raurimu Spiral
View this world famous piece of railway engineering from the lookout on SH 4 at Raurimu. A steep gradient on the main trunk railway. It rises 213m at a slope of 1 in 50 by means of a complete circle, three horseshoe curves and two tunnels.
A working model can be seen at the Taumarunui i-SITE Information Centre in Hakiaha Street.
Train trips depart Taumarunui at 12 noon, returning to National Park at 1.40pm and arriving back in Taumarunui at 2.35pm. Trains operate three days a week during the winter months and seven days during the summer season.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

42 Traverse
Enter via Kapoors Rd (18km north of National Park); continue 6.4kms to car park, DoC directional sign and start of track. The track should be well staked with green markers before and after most major intersections.
Considered one of the best mountain bike rides in the North Island. It follows old logging tracks through some of the most remote land in NZ in State Forest 42 in the Tongariro Forest. There are challenging downhills and muscle testing uphills, through the lush native forest with sweeping views of the Central north Island Mountains eg Echo Point. Highlights include the stunning Canyon Valley, several river crossings and best of all a pub at the end.
It is around 46km with the overall descent of 520m and takes around 4-6 hours. Be prepared and equipped for rapid changeable weather.
Erua Road and Side Trails/Cuff Road
Erue and Cuff Rds are metal roads and go through some fascinating and beautiful eco and forest regions with spectacular views. The two tracks are old construction tracks in mixed state, for the adventurous.

Fishers
A real buzz track of 127kms, 95 percent downhill with a 520m descent. Join metal roads and travel to Monument corner for usual pick up point. Now part of the National Mountain to Sea Trail.

John McDonald Loop
For experienced riders who like a challenge. It’s only a 40km loop, but it takes 4-7 hours and excellent navigation skills through the Tongariro Forest Park.

Pukehinau Loop
Incorporating 4.7kms of 42 Traverse, two single tracks linking to Pukehinau Rd. Can be done as a loop road or in part.

The Pines
Opposite the Old Waikune Prison, 3km south of National Park Village, is a seal road that leads to the old mill site. This is the old forestry area. The prison used to mill this area. Park in Old Mill site. All tracks lead back to site.

Tonagariro Forest Loop
40kms for experienced riders who like a challenge. You will encounter every type of riding imaginable on this beauty.

Whakapapa Road
A demanding uphill or buzz downhill.

WALKS/HIKES & TREKS

Tupapakurua Falls Track
A four to five hour return tramp from the Village for fit, experienced and adequately equipped trampers to a less visited area.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track passes over varied and spectacular volcanic terrain. In the presence of active volcanoes you can experience some of Tongariro

ational Park’s special gifts.
17km one way (seven to nine hours). Transport can be arranged through the Visitor Information Centres.

WHAKAPAPA VILLAGE

Whakapapa Village is situated in the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park at the base of the majestic Mt Ruapehu, New Zealand’s’ most famous volcano.
Home to the historic Chateau Tongariro, a New Zealand icon, it is only a short 10 minute drive up the Bruce Rd to Whakapapa ski area, New Zealand’s largest ski area and is central to most activities in the Park.
Scenes from the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy were filmed at various locations in the Tongariro National Park including the base of Whakapapa ski area.
The Department of Conservation Visitor Centre provides extensive information on the treks and hikes available in the Tongariro National Park as well as information on the Park’s natural and cultural features. Phone 892 3729.

Scenic Flights
Fly over the majestic Tongariro National Park, contact Mountain Air Scenic Flights on 892 2812.

Hikes/treks
Trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or shorter hikes of less than one day, including Tawhai Falls, Taranaki Falls, Tama Lakes and Silica Rapids. Guided Ruapehu Crater Lake Walks In summer, visitors can take a guided walk to the crater rim and experience the awesome power of nature. Phone 892 3738.

Scenic Chairlift Rides
Scenic chairlift rides operate on Whakapapa ski area throughout most of the year offering spectacular views over the Central North Island. Phone 892 3738.

Skiing/Snowboarding
Whakapapa ski area is accessed from Whakapapa Village. World-class facilities cater for all levels from the beginner to the advanced and adventurous. Phone 892 3738.

OHAKUNE

The resort town of Ohakune is located just 20 minutes drive from Turoa ski area on the southwestern side of Mt Ruapehu and as winter sets in Ohakune is transformed into the bustling après ski capital of the North Island.
Well known for its premier ski party the “Ruapehu Mountain Mardi Gras” this vibrant town celebrates the beginning of winter with music, rides, stalls, fireworks and laser shows. Fun for the whole family.
Fertile soil rich with volcanic ash, Ohakune is also known as the Carrot Capital of New Zealand reflecting the importance of market gardening to this area.
Key scenes from the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy were shot on this side of Mt Ruapehu with the film crew making their base in Ohakune.
A great way to spend a day is to head east on the Volcanic Loop scenic drive. There are fantastic views of Mt Ruapehu and it passes through Waiouru, home to the New Zealand Army and the gateway to the Rangipo Desert.
The Ohakune Mountain Rd that leads to the Turoa ski area rises 1000m is one of the most stunning drives in the country. From lowland beech forest to beautiful alpine tussock land the road is a great down hill adrenalin rush for mountain bikers in summer. There is also a 17km 1000 vertical metres descent mountain bike ride.
The Ohakune Mountain Rd is the southern access to the Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest National Park and a unique area of remarkable diversity.

Horopito Car Museum
Horopito Vintage Cars is a must-do for car enthusiasts, 4ha of automobilia from vintage to modern and was the site of the noted 1981 film Smash Palace.

Jet Boating
Guided tours include the Bridge to Nowhere and the River Queen movie film locations. Short scenic tours can also be tailor made to suit your needs. Guided and freedom canoe options available.

Mayhem Paintball
Phone 892 2894.

Paintball
A great group activity. Phone the Ski Shed 385 9173.

Skiing/Snowboarding
Turoa ski area is accessed from Ohakune. World-class facilities cater for all levels from the beginner to the advanced and adventurous.

Trout Fishing
Within Ohakune area there are a number of magnificent fishing rivers and streams which include, Manganui o te Ao River and Mangawhero River.

WALKS/HIKES & TREKS

Short treks accessible from Ohakune include Waitonga Falls, Mangawhero Falls, Lake Surprise and the Old Blyth Track. Transport to and from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be arranged.

Old Coach Road
Walk to the Hapuawhenua viaduct. Loop walk, 7km return.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

The opportunities for mountain biking in the Ruapehu region abound. There are four trails that are easily accessed. From first timers to downhill demons there are trails to suit. Ohakune Mountain Rd, another scenic sealed road (17km) leading up to Turoa ski area. A number of excellent walks can also be accessed along the way or vice versa.

Lakes Reserve
A very pleasant loop road around a lake through picturesque native bush. A DoC reserve

Ohakune Mountain Road
A testing 16.1km (1000m vertical) climb uphill through various alpine landscapes from DoC office to end of road (the start of the National Mountain to Sea Trail) or a buzz downhill. All seal road, be prepared for differing weather conditions. There are also numerous walking tracks off this road; details can be obtained from the DoC office.

Old Coach Road
Starts at Marshall Rd. 14km to Horopito with transport available back to Ohakune – book at i-SITE. This is a newly recognised track rich in history and beauty. A cobblestone road built over 100 years ago to give coach transport for the Rail passengers from Ohakune South Railhead to Raurimu North Railhead. All the history of this road and the viaduct is very well documented by numerous on site signs. Old Coach Rd loop walk to the Hapuawhenua Viaduct for those not wanting to ride is a beautiful 7km loop walk.

Rangataua Forest
Rangataua road is an old metal forest road of approximately 12km (located via Karori Station Rd off SH 49) that winds through picturesque Rangataua Forest up the slope of Mt Ruapehu.

Ratamarie Road
Ohakune to start 2km. Finish to Ohakune 5km (via SH 49). A mix of formally formed ”paper” and metal roads through typical New Zealand sheep and beef farms and market gardens with magnificent views of Mt Ruapehu and Ohakune area.
After leaving Lakes Rd enter the unformed Ratarmarie Rd where you go through a typical New Zealand farm, (please close the gate) with great views finishing on a steepish slope on the metal road.

Rotokura Reserve
A very pleasant 1-2 hour walk around two crater lakes in DoC Eco Reserve. A delightful lunch stop with picnic benches at first lake.

EVENTS

Kune Climber Bike Race Anzac weekend.
Fallout Festival 18 August – 10 September.
Big Mountain Short Film festival 23 October.
The Goat 4 December.

RAETIHI

Just 10 minutes drive from Ohakune, Raetihi is a small historical village. It is one of New Zealand’s original timber towns and is home to the "Theatre Royal" which is not only the oldest theatre in New Zealand, it is also the oldest theatre in the Southern Hemisphere. Located on SH 4, Raetihi is home to the Ratana Church and is close to the Mangawhero and Manganui a te Ao Rivers, both well known for trout fishing and fauna such as the Blue Duck (whio).
The vast Whanganui National Park, the rugged bush clad hills surrounding Pipiriki and the Bridge To Nowhere are just a
few of the examples of the spectacular scenery that abound from Raetihi.
The Bridge To Nowhere was built for vehicles but has no road to or from it. It can be reached only by jet boat, canoe/kayak or on foot.
Jet boats are also used to access the Matemateonga Track. Meaning isolated desolation, the Matemateonga Track is a four day tramp to Stratford using old Maori trails to penetrate deep into the dense forests of the Matemateonga range.
The main street of Raetihi has recently been restored to reflect the pioneering history of the town. Historic buildings include the Theatre Royal, Bank of New Zealand and the museum complex, which consists of the old railway station, police office, jail and stable. The original Raetihi Power Station continues to supply the town.

Pipiriki
A peaceful, picturesque village 27kms from Raetihi with good picnicking, camping, short walks, jet boating and a strong aura of history. The road is sealed for 13kms then metalled for the remaining 14kms. The drive is very beautiful and scenic.
Pipiriki is also a gateway to the wilderness reaches of the Whanganui River and a meeting place for kayaking, canoeing, jet boating and hunting.

Ruatiti Domain
Free camping area. Excellent swimming and trout fishing.

Whanganui National Park
The Whanganui National Park is based around the Whanganui River. Visitors can see the beauty of the park by canoe, kayak and jet boat or by hiking the many tracks, which cross the park and river. The Whanganui River has recently been used as film locations for several independent and popular movies. Information on the area attractions can be obtained from the Raetihi Information Centre Seddon Street, phone 385 4805.

Raetihi Museum
The Raetihi Museum is open Sundays 11am - 2.30pm or by arrangement. Contact the Raetihi Information Centre, phone 385 4805.
Canoeing/Jet boating
Cultural guided waka tours and jet boat tours available.

RAETIHI EVENTS

Weekly
Wednesdays Raetihi Ohakune Rotary Club meets.
Monthly
Country market. Contact Joy Cragg 385 3100.
November
Raetihi Ripper Charity 4WD Trail Bike Ride held third weekend over two days.
December
Christmas parade and market day.
February
Waimarino A & P Show and Woodchopping, held third weekend.
Dog trials.
Central North Island Chartered Clubs Clay Target Shoot.
March
Waimarino Rodeo and Shears Competition held third weekend.
Waimarino Pony Club
Swim Club Carnival.
June/July
Waimarino Art Awards and Banner Design Competition. For more information contact Raetihi Information Centre phone 385 4805.

WAIOURU

Heading southeast from Ohakune is the town of Waiouru, gateway to the Rangipo Desert and home to the New Zealand Army and the must see Waiouru Army Museum. This internationally known attraction captures New Zealand’s military history honouring New Zealander’s at war from major conflicts through to peacekeeping missions.
The NZ Army’s main training base, the biggest army installation in the country, covers 86,818ha and runs alongside SH 1 for 35kms, reaching from Ruapehu’s snowline to the Rangitikei River headwaters, 30kms to the east. It includes the Moawhango Dam (part of the Tongariro Power Scheme), which is fed by 22 streams on the southern slopes of Mt Ruapehu via aquaduct under the Desert Rd.

National Army Museum
The Queen Elizabeth II Army Museum Waiouru is located at the junction of SH 1 and Hassett Dr. It is open every day except Christmas Day, from 9am - 4.30pm.

SKI AREAS

At 2797m Mt Ruapehu is the North Island’s highest mountain and is home to the largest ski areas in New Zealand (total 1800ha of lift access terrain). On the northwestern slopes is the popular Whakapapa ski area, renowned as one of NZ’s leading ski resorts and providing excellent skiing for all levels of ability. There is a sliding park for non-skiers, boarders, tubers and tobogganers.
Turoa ski area is on the southwestern slopes and offers perfect snowboarding terrain with wide-open slopes and pipe shapes. Turoa has the biggest vertical drop of any ski area in Australasia.
Both areas offer rentals, lessons, workshop facilities and refreshments. Just one lift pass is required for access to both areas.
On the eastern side of Mt Ruapehu is Tukino, a small club operated backcountry skifield.
During the summer, December to April, Whakapapa ski area operates scenic chairlift rides offering unsurpassed and spectacular views over the Central North Island and operates guided treks to the Crater Lake on Mt Ruapehu.

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

The centre of the North Island is distinguished by the magnificent Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage park of 79,598ha, recognising the park's important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features.
Tongariro National Park was created in 1887 when Te Heuheu Tukino IV, paramount chief of the Ngati Tuwharetoa tribe gifted the sacred peaks to the nation. The landscape varies from vast tussock land to mountain beech forests and wetlands.
Tongariro National Park is enjoyed and explored all year round by hikers, skiers, snowboarders, botanists, geologists and nature lovers alike.
Tongariro is home to many amazing native creatures including NZ's only native mammals, the short and long tailed bats. Birds you might see during daylight include North Island robins, fantails, parakeets and even a kereru (native pigeon) or two. Smaller, but no less interesting are the numerous insects that live in the park.
For more information contact:
Taumarunui i-SITE Information Centre, Hakiaha Street, Taumarunui, phone 895 7494.
Ruapehu i-SITE Information Centre 54 Clyde Street, Ohakune, phone 385 8427 or see www.visitruapehu.com.