THINGS TO SEE & ACTIVITIES TO DO IN THE TONGARIRO ALPINE AREA

The Olive Rabbit, Boutique Bed & Breakfast is the ideal base to relax and base yourselves to explore the wider National Park Central Plateau.

New Zealand's largest gondola, the Sky Waka, runs most of the year both Summer and Winter with some time closed for maintenance. Running over rugged landscape in summer, and snow-clad landscape in winter it ferries skiers up the mountain ready to take on the huge snow filled basins, steep terrain, and well-groomed trails. Various trails accommodate skiers and snowboarders from beginners to advanced.

In summer, tourists take the ride to marvel at the volcanic landscape, and pick up with short walks. In winter, they are replaced with the skiers chasing the snow.

Transport and Shuttles

The are a number of operators who provide a safe and convenient way to reach the ski fields when the road is restricted. Contact Mary or Tim to help establish a booking for you.

Services and Facilities

• Equipment Hire
• Mountain Shuttle
• Ski School
• Café and Bar

Discover the outdoor paradise within the Tongariro National Park Central Plateau, where an abundance of hiking opportunities awaits. The renowned Alpine Crossing unveils an epic journey across volcanic landscapes between Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro. Past The Red Crater, the highest point of the hike and down to the famous Emerald Lakes. Both ancient and active craters paint an unforgettable path as hikers pave their way over the mountains and down the other side through damp and peaceful native bush often punctuated with old and hardened lava flows. Four season in one day is often expereinced regardless of the time of the year. On days, when the peaks are shrouded in cloud, the Tama Lakes trail offers an equally enchanting alternative, leading through glacial-carved valleys. Or alternatively, immerse yourself in the park's history and nature as you explore the Taranaki Falls and Tawhai Falls, Gollum's Pool, where native flora and birdcalls fill the air. Lake Rotopounamu, an easy essential trek, reflects the surrounding bush-clad beauty of the area. Echoes of Maori heritage resound at Lake Rotoaira, where the first haka resonated, and Pukawa, birthplace of the Maori king movement. Amidst these natural wonders, remains of the Land Wars, like Te Porere Redoubt stand as poignant reminders of history's imprint on the land. In every step Tongariro National Park weaves a narrative of geological marvels and cultural significance that beckons to be explored.

A checklist with so much to do:

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Allow a full day to cover this in a relaxed manner and stay at least two nights in the area. It is not a walk in the park but rather challenging as you cover various levels of terrain and meet some phobias along the way. Always travel with a buddy and if you're alone, befriend a buddy as you go.
• Tama Lakes: A good choice if you do not wish to make the climb of up and over.
• Taranaki Falls: An excellent challenge for those only wanting to walk for 2-3 hours. If you have bad knees, take the lower route first
• Tawhai Falls: A quick visit to these falls is great, especially of the weather is not favourable but you want to do some hiking while in the area. It is also Gollum's Pool for those Lord of the Rings addicts.
• Lake Rotopounamu: An exquisite visit for a quick trip to check out some New Zealand flora and fauna. The bush is lush and the birdsong will leave you awe-inspired.
• Lake Rotoaira: Of historial significance as it was here where the first haka was performed and what a story that is too. Te Porere Redoubt will take you along a road of discovery where you'll learn a little about the Land Wars of the C18th.
• Pukawa Marae: Unfortunately this is only a 'drive by' experience but the trip down to the shores of Pukawa is worth the visit. This is where the New Zealand Maori King movement was first mooted even though the actual Maori King Marae lies at Ngaruawahia.
• Te Porere Redoubt: A European Redoubt and the place of the last of the major Land Wars. The famous Te Kooti was defeated here in 1869 and although lives were lost he managed to escape.
• Tongariro River Trail: Up to 15km, taking 1-2½ hours. The National Trout Centre is en route and is a great diversion along the way. There are two swing bridges to cross with some options to shorten or lengthen the journey

Turangi offers a cycling haven, with a couple of diverse trails catering to all enthusiasts. Embark on the Tongariro River Trail, conveniently close to The Olive Rabbit accommodation. Leave your car behind and embark on a 15km, 1-2½ hour journey through the captivating landscapes. The trail encompasses the National Trout Centre, an experience for fishing enthusiasts. For a more exhilarating ride, explore the Tree Trunk Gorge trail, meandering through native bush, over river fords, and across charming wooden bridges. The Pillars of Hercules found amongst the rugged charm of beech forests, blends nature's grandeur with the thrill of biking. Turangi's biking trails epitomize the harmonious interplay of adventure and natural beauty, promising a memorable exploration of this enchanting area.

Biker's checklist:

• Tongariro River Trail: Up to 15km, taking 1-2½ hours. The National Trout Centre is en route and great diversion along the way. There are two swing bridges to cross with some options to shorten or lengthen the journey
• Tree Trunk Gorge: 19km, taking 2-4 hours. The track weaves through native forest, across four fords and two wooden bridges. Visit the Pillars of Hercules along the way.
• Using The Olive Rabbit as a base, drive further north for:
  • Great Lake Trail
  • Huka Falls Loop and/or
  • Aratiatia Loop

The Olive Rabbit Boutique Bed & Breakfast is a homely, comfortable, hosted accommodation set close to the Tongariro River. The owners, Mary and Tim will look after you and your needs to ensure your fishing experience is second-to-none. From organising a fishing guide, to drying your gear, to helping you smoke your catch to ensuring it is cooked to perfection, they will be there all the way. Whatever you need, they will endeavour to source. Fishing the world-famous Tongariro River has been a passion for fishermen for well over a century. From quiet, gentle pools to rapids and raging pools in the upper river, fishermen have been drawn to the Tongariro region to hook their "big one". Let Mary and Tim ensure you join the group of fishermen who rave about the area.

Lower Tongariro River

These slow flowing pools, south of the SH1's bridge, attract many anglers particularly over the summer period. The big browns is their wish as they cast out and hope for better things.

Middle Section Tongariro River

The section between the SH1 road bridge and Red Hut Pool attracts many anglers throughout the year. Many pools have become established and are famous for many reasons. People from all walks of life have visited including the Duchess of York in the '40s, Zane Grey, and then the Major, the Judge and the Admiral. Here, wading is relatively safe and parking is easy.

Upper Tongariro River

Above the Red Pool the fishing is more challenging. Boulders and rapids prevail and often the river can be turbulent and wild. The pools are smaller so sharing of space is not in the equation nor is company. This area is for those wanting solitude!

Book a Guide

Check our packages and let us know if you wish to fish the Tongariro River or venture further afield. Our guides can also advise on this depending up the time of the year, time allocated and conditions that may prevail.

Whitewater Rafting the Tongariro River is one of the hidden gems of New Zealand. There are more rapids than any other trip offering within the country, yet it is still a Grade 3 appealing to a wider range of rafters. Additionally, we can arrange for a Family Float, which is merely a gentler ride for those not quite so enthused or confident. You will travel over fifty rapids and travel 14km through wonderful forestry, farmland and surrounded by an ancient volcanic landscape.

What you need: Swimwear, towel

What is provided: Polar fleece, splash jacket, helmet, wetsuit, lifejacket

Photos: Check but maybe part of the package (this can vary)

Time: Water Time 2 - 2½ hrs, Trip Time 3½ - 4 hrs

The Turangi Golf Course is 18 holes, par 72 from both tees. The course is reasonably flat with water features and the colours in autumn from the many old English deciduous trees is stunning. Back in the '60s the locals set up the club, without the golf course! Two years later there was a 9-hole course and by 1971 there was a full 18-hole course. What a history!

Taumarunui Golf Course

Only 45 mins away from Turangi is the Taumarunui Golf Course. Rated as one of the Top 50 Courses in NZ it is a sure "must do" on the golfers' agenda and could be squeezed in during a trip to the area.

Kinloch – Jack Nicklaus-designed Course

Travelling north the next day, golfers should stop by at Kinloch's golf course. What a gem to have in our area.

The Tokaanu Geothermal Park is only seven minutes from The Olive Rabbit. The short walk around naturally steaming pools and plopping mud lies amongst natural native bush. A smaller version of Whakarewarewa, the local Maori Ngati Kurauia have lived in this little pocket of land since C16th. Even today, one can soak in the thermal pools for relaxation or the waters' therapeutic qualities.

What will you Find?

A twenty-minute Geothermal Board Walk maintained by DOC (Department of Conservation) displaying hot steaming mineral pools and boiling mud pots.

Tokaanu Thermal Pools

The private pools allow one to soak and rest the weary muscles and joints for a limited amount of time. All you will need is a towel.