Tongariro Northern Circuit
One of New Zealand's Great Walks, taking three to four days to circle Mount Ruapehu. It combines the highlights of alpine trails with volcanic desert landscapes.
The Northern Circuit is about 43 km long and usually takes three to four days. It starts from Whakapapa Village or Mangatepopo. The route passes the core alpine sections of the Red Crater and the Emerald Lakes, then crosses the Rangipo Desert on the east side of Ruapehu and the Waihohonu Valley, staying in DOC huts along the way. In peak season, huts and campsites must be booked in advance on the DOC website, with prices starting at about 40 to 50 NZD per night. In winter it becomes an alpine-grade route that requires snow and ice gear. It sees fewer people than the one-day crossing and suits hikers who want a deeper experience of the volcanic plateau.
Opening hours
Great Walk season about October–April
Nearby sights
- Mount Ngauruhoe
- Tama Lakes
- Taranaki Falls
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Whakapapa Village & Visitor Centre
- Tawhai Falls (Gollum's Pool)
- Whakapapa Ski Area & Sky Waka
- Silica Rapids