[19-Day NZ Self-Drive Itinerary] Explore Tongariro National Park: Hiking & Scenic Views

We spent a delightful three days and two nights in Tongariro, and I’ll dive straight into the highlights:

【Accommodation】
My teammate, on their second visit, opted for Skotel Alpine Resort once again, which we later discovered is the highest-altitude hotel in New Zealand. The resort’s rustic charm is evident in its wooden cabin structure. For those who appreciate a scenic stay, the resort offers rooms with breathtaking views (P3 room interior, P4 view from the small balcony). If budget is a priority, there are also dormitory-style bunk beds available.

The hotel’s restaurant serves three meals a day, with a breakfast buffet priced at 27 NZD per adult, which I found to be quite reasonable. We didn’t try the lunch or dinner options because the hotel provides a communal kitchen, which is incredibly convenient! P5 captures a corner of this well-equipped kitchen, available for all guests to use. If you’re handy in the kitchen, I highly recommend bringing your own ingredients to cook up a storm.

Given that most visitors to Tongariro are hikers, the hotel caters to a wide range of needs, from budget-friendly to luxurious. It’s a top recommendation!

【Hiking Route 1: Silica Rapids (P2 Green Line)】
On our second day, it rained all morning, but as soon as the skies cleared in the afternoon, we eagerly set out and chose the easy green line. The trail was a feast for the eyes, with stunning scenery (first image + P6-P8).

Avoid: Ridge Track, which offers no scenic views and simply involves walking without reaching any summit, requiring backtracking.

【Hiking Route 2: Tama Lakes (P2 Fluorescent Yellow Line)】
On the third day, blessed with clear weather, we set off early for Tama Lakes. The path begins right outside the hotel’s main entrance, heading to the right. The gentle slope and the sight of the snow-capped mountains drawing closer were incredibly motivating.

Midway through, we encountered the beautiful Taranaki Falls (P9), and if you prefer not to continue to the lake, you can loop back from here. The walk to Lower Tama (P10) is manageable, and the two restrooms along the way add a quirky touch.

Then came the highlight!! A sign indicated that Upper Tama was just 1.5 km away, and we thought, “Why not?” Little did we know, it would be a challenging ascent. The terrain quickly became steep and rocky, making navigation extremely difficult. Each flag along the way marked a new challenge. As a beginner hiker, it felt like starting in hell… but we pushed through, gritting our teeth. Walking along the ridge at the top of the mountain was exhilarating! Finally, we reached Upper Tama (P11)!

We started at 8:00 AM and arrived in 2.5 hours, making us one of the first. Those who came later were equipped with professional gear, while we arrived with minimal equipment (P13), giving us a great sense of accomplishment.

P14-P15 are must-see spots. The climb was nerve-wracking, but the views were absolutely worth it!

The return trip was the real test, with no scenic views to keep us motivated. It took 3 hours to get back to the hotel, with our legs feeling the strain of the journey.

【Summary】
With the varied landscapes of Tongariro and its unpredictable weather, a three-day stay is ideal to fully explore and appreciate the area. From leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, there are trails for every level of adventurer, ensuring that everyone finds their perfect path. Don’t miss out on the breathtaking beauty of Tongariro National Park—it’s an experience you won’t forget!