Discover Whakapapa Village

Whakapapa Village is the main gateway to Tongariro National Park and is located on State Highway 48. Waterfalls, alpine herb fields, protected forest and volcanic terrain give the walks a variety of landscape features. The time required can also vary considerably: alongside a day walk, there is a section of the Round the Mountain Track that can be spread over two or three days.

Waterfalls, forest and volcanic formations

The Taranaki Falls Walk is a loop track to a 20 m-high waterfall, with mountain views and varied terrain. Taranaki Falls plunges over an andesite lava flow that erupted from Ruapehu 15,000 years ago. This makes for a striking combination of a notable waterfall and a specific volcanic history along the walk. The Taranaki Falls Walk is also part of the Te Araroa Trail.

The Tama Lakes Track starts in Whakapapa Village via the Taranaki Falls Walking Track. As a day walk, it leads through rolling tussock land and alpine herb fields; the track is well formed and marked. This offers a way to experience the area’s landscape within a shorter timeframe, while the route also provides clear navigation points.

Another variation in the landscape can be found nearby: the Silica Rapids Walk follows a boardwalk through boggy terrain. Freshwater crayfish, known as kōura, live in the seepage pools; the walk also features varied vegetation and creamy-white silica terraces. The trailhead is 250 m above the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre. In the village, the Whakapapanui Walk follows Whakapapanui Stream through protected forest. Along this walk, you can look out for the endangered whio, or blue ducks.

From a day walk to a multi-day hike

The difference in time required between the Tama Lakes Track and the Round the Mountain Track is clear: the Tama Lakes Track is a day walk. A section of the Round the Mountain Track between Whakapapa Village and Ohakune Mountain Road, however, can be walked over two or three days, either on the western or eastern side of Ruapehu. These different timeframes can help you choose a walk that fits your travel plans.

The Sky Waka gondola offers another perspective on the landscape. During the 1.8 km ride at an altitude of 2,020 m, it provides views of the volcanic terrain of Mt Ruapehu, as well as across the mountain and the Central Plateau. Operating hours and conditions may change; check them before planning your visit. Whakapapa Ski Area has a dedicated beginners’ area with covered conveyor belts and a slow-moving chairlift. As operating status can change, check current operations before making specific plans.

Visitor Centre and getting around the village

The Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre is located in Whakapapa Village and is the park’s main gateway. Its exhibits cover topics such as volcanoes, Māori mythology, flora and fauna. This gives you a chance not only to experience the landscape outdoors, but also to learn about the park’s cultural and natural history.

There is a car park opposite the Visitor Centre for the Round the Mountain Track. The trailhead is on Ngauruhoe Place, 100 m below the centre. From this trailhead, it takes approximately five hours and 30 minutes to walk to Waihohonu Hut; this walking time is an estimate and is weather-dependent. In winter, parking along State Highway 48 in Whakapapa Village is limited to three hours. Check the applicable parking regulations before you travel.

You can tailor your hotel search to the experiences that matter most for your trip.

The wider setting: Ruapehu District

Ruapehu District includes the western half of Tongariro National Park, which is a dual World Heritage site. Most of Mount Ruapehu is also within Ruapehu District. This information places Whakapapa Village in the wider geographic context of the district.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Raetihi, Retaruke, Owhango, Kakahi, Ohakune, Erua, Taumarunui, Matiere.

For the broader travel overview: Ruapehu District.