10 Days 552 km

Highlights

  • Lake Waikaremoana
  • Tongariro National Park
  • Volcanic splendours

Proximity

CAR-FREE TRAVEL OPTIONS

Experience the best hiking in the Central North Island on this 10-day itinerary. Hike one of New Zealand's Great Walks in Lake Waikaremoana, famous for its pristine rainforests, lake views and untouched greenery. Experience the spectacular scenery of Tongariro Alpine Crossing and climb Auckland's iconic Rangitoto Island.

Day 1: Gisborne

Begin your journey in the Tairawhiti city of Gisborne, where you can surf to your heart’s content, experience Maori culture and gain a new appreciation for Chardonnay. Spend your day exploring the city and relaxing in preparation for your hike tomorrow.

Day 2 - 5: Hike the Lake Waikaremoana Track

Hawke's Bay
Lake Waikaremoana Track, Hawke's Bay

Highlights

  • Te Urewera Wilderness Area
  • Prehistoric native forests
  • Stunning waterfalls and wetlands

Proximity

  • by car:

    3 h | 174 km via SH2 & SH38 to starting point

  • by bus:

    Visit local iSITE for transport options

LAKE WAIKAREMOANA TRACK

Hike through rainforest, wetlands and a magical 'goblin forest'.

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Beginning at the Onepoto shelter in Waikaremoana, the Lake Waikaremoana track is a 3-4 day hike through pristine rainforest, wetland, herb fields and a magical ‘goblin forest’. Along the way, you'll discover magnificent rivers, waterfalls and ghostly valleys of mist. Department of Conservation(opens in new window) huts provide basic accommodation en route and guided tours are available through Walking Legends or Ultimate North. If you're walking independently, you may want to check our Safety in the Outdoors page to ensure you have all the essentials covered.

The trail ends at the Hopuruahine Suspension Bridge. From here, you can catch a pre-arranged shuttle back to Gisborne. For detailed trail information, visit our Lake Waikaremoana Track page.

Day 6: Gisborne to Taupō

Taupō
Otuhumeke Stream, Taupō
lake-taupo

TAUPŌ

Explore Australasia's largest lake.

Highlights

  • Natural hot springs
  • Waiarua twin waterfalls
  • Mine Bay Māori carvings

Proximity

In the morning, drive from Gisborne to Taupō, where you can take some time to unwind and explore. There are many activities on offer in this centrally located region. For some relaxation, try the mineral pools at Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa. Or to get in some more adventure, try the exciting Huka Falls Jet.

Day 7: Taupō to Ohakune

Ruapehu
Taranaki Falls, Ruapehu

Highlights

  • Walking and hiking trails
  • Volcanic cones
  • National Army Museum

Proximity

  • by car:

    1 h 45 min | 135 km via SH1 & SH47

  • by bus:

    No direct bus route -  see car-free options

  • Visit local iSITE for alternative transport

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

Discover New Zealand's first national park.

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Spend a leisurely morning exploring Taupō before travelling across to Ohakune where you'll find a whole plethora of places to explore including Mount Ruapehu the highest mountain in the North Island. In the winter months (June-September), Ruapehu is home to three different ski fields. Take a scenic flight around the volcanic landscape, or travel south to Waiouru to visit the National Army Museum

Car-free Option

Spend the night in Tūrangi and access the Tongariro Alpine Crossing from here.

Day 8: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand

Highlights

  • New Zealand's greatest day walk
  • Active volcanic craters
  • Emerald lakes

Proximity

  • by car:

    45 min | 64 km from Ohakune

  • by bus:

    DOC recommends accessing the track by shuttle

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING

Discover New Zealand's greatest day walk.

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Today you will hike what many call New Zealand's greatest day walk - the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This challenging 19.4 km track traverses the stark volcanic terrain between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. Taking in lava flows, steam vents, emerald-coloured lakes and an active crater this walk is an unforgettable experience.

The Department of Conservation(opens in new window) recommends that visitors access the Crossing via a shuttle, a full list of local operators can be found here.(opens in new window)

Day 9 - 10: Ohakune to Auckland

Auckland
Sunset views from Rangitoto Summit, Auckland
auckland

AUCKLAND

Vibrant city style and spectacular landscapes

Highlights

  • Rangitoto Island
  • Markets, wineries and unique eateries
  • Wild black sand beaches

Proximity

In the morning, travel on to  Taupō, where you can spend some time relaxing in luxurious mineral pools or visiting the dramatic Huka Falls before catching a flight to Auckland.

Spend your final day exploring Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Take a ferry to Rangitoto and climb to the summit for panoramic views or travel to Waiheke Island where you can enjoy world-class wineries and secluded beaches. Auckland is also a great place for museums, art galleries and shopping.

View the route below

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