The Tongariro River Walk

The River Walk

… with so many options

When you arrive at The Olive Rabbit, mid-afternoon, there is always the question of what to do before dinner? Depending upon the weather and time of year, the Tongariro River Walk is always there and a ‘must see’, because, you’ve come to Turangi. We are only 500 m from the river bank and the Major Jones’ Bridge, and with several options:

For a good one-hours’ walk, crossing the swing bridge and turning left, takes one along the far side of the river, up to a fabulous lookout that gives a unique view of the mouth of the river emptying into the lake. Taking in the view, popping many photos, leads to the downward trip to the road bridge and back along the river bank to the swing bridge: your starting point. This is often referred to as the top loop.

Coming back one can see many fishermen trying their luck as they flick their rods in the river. It seems there is always someone there, regardless of the time of the day. This ever-popular river is visited by many far and wide and at any time of the year. Thinking of trying a trout for dinner? You’re out of luck unless you fish for yourself or find a kind fisherman who has caught one more than he needs. Buying trout in the restaurants won’t be a ‘thing’ as it is illegal to sell them. It is a game fish and you need to be in to play the ‘game’. There are many fishing guides in the area so experience is not a necessity. Just the time and the will to learn.

Anyway, back to your walk: if you take off on your walk after check out from The Olive Rabbit, guests often return from the road bridge along Taupahi road and catch a well-earned coffee at Creel Café. Great coffee and fabulous food in a takeaway bag for lunch is always a good plan. The Creel Café was originally a tackle shop until the previous owners decided to pop in a café at the back! Yes … you walk through the tackle section, wondering where you are and then spy a tiny café at the back that isn’t big enough to swing a cat. But it is well worth the visit … You have three options: grab a takeaway coffee and lunch pack, stay for your coffee, and relax with your plated meal or cabinet food consumed inside, or outside under the umbrellas.

If guests have more time, the full southern loop can be undertaken, leading down to the Tongariro Fisheries Centre, the Red Hut Bridge and back again. This is a longer route of three or more hours. A beautiful walk where you will really connect with the river. It can also be ridden:

Posted by Mary Wood on August 18, 2023