Day #4: Tongariro National Park

Hamilton to Ohakune
 On Day 4 travelers board the Northern Explorer once again, passing icy flowing waters and mountains en route to the next stop on the Northern Explorer line, Ohakune. The tour spend 2 days in this area, exploring the Tongariro National Park.

Entering Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park, located in New Zealand's North Island, is a stunning landscape of volcanic peaks, alpine meadows, and lush native forests. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for both its natural and cultural significance, the park holds deep spiritual importance to the Māori people. Dominated by three active volcanoes—Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu—the park's dramatic landscapes include stark lava fields, geothermal hot springs, and pristine alpine lakes, most notably the vibrant Emerald Lakes and the serene Blue Lake. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most iconic day hikes, winds through this otherworldly terrain, offering panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is a habitat for unique flora and fauna, including rare alpine plants and native birds like the kiwi and blue duck, making it a sanctuary for biodiversity as well as a destination for adventure and natural wonder. On the first day at the park visitors undertake a trek to the Tūroa Ski field before descending to Ohakune to spend the night.


Mount Tongariro Mount Ngauruhoe Mount Ruapehu
Red Crater Lava Field Blue Lake Ketetahi Hot Springs

Emerald Lakes
Tongariro Alpine Crossing