Things to see and do North Island

Often described as New Zealand's finest one-day trek, its reputation is far from usurped. This 17 km itinerary traverses some of the country's most beautiful and impressive scenery, along a perfectly signposted trail with no difficulties other than its length and climbs. Anyone can do it, provided they're in good physical condition and the weather's cooperating. The adjective "alpine" does, however, underline the nature of the terrain and the differences in altitude, and you shouldn't venture out without preparation, food and equipment (good shoes, warm clothing, windbreaker and/or raincoat).

It's essential to check the weather forecast with the Department Of Conservation before setting off, as the region's weather can be unstable. What's more, you're climbing high, and blue skies at Whakapapa village don't mean it's going to be warm and sunny at the top - far from it! Even in midsummer, it's sometimes too cold on the summits to linger too long, so you quickly eat your sandwich and head back!

Nonetheless, this is an absolute must-see during your stay, as the change of scenery provided by the lunar volcanic landscapes is breathtaking. It's not for nothing that the region served as the setting for Mordor in The Lord of the Rings...

There are many other worthwhile hikes in the park, and if you want to be sure not to miss this one, it's a good idea to plan several days in the area. Unfavorable weather can make the experience far less impressive. Visibility is sometimes so poor that you can barely see the markers, let alone the scenery...the physical challenge is always interesting, but you still lose an essential dimension of the adventure.

At other times, the wind may be too strong, and even if the sky is blue, the shuttles may decide not to make the trip so as not to put hikers in conditions that could prove dangerous.

So it's best to plan ahead for a few days to be sure of a favorable weather window, and explore the rest of the park in the meantime. The wait may be frustrating, but the reward will be all the greater!

The hike starts at Mangatepopo Road Car Park, in the west, and ends at Ketetahi Road, in the north, for a total of 6 to 9 hours' walking, depending on your pace and the detours you allow yourself. The route takes in superb lakes (Emerald Lakes and Blue Lake) and the park's three mountains, Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu.

Mount Tongariro is the smallest of the three peaks, at 1,968 meters above sea level. It is a volcano with numerous craters, some of which are still active. It is also home to mud pools and hot springs on its northern slopes. It last erupted in 2012, and some hiking trails had to be closed due to the propulsion of rocks and ash over part of the park. If you want to climb a mountain during the trek, this is the one to choose, as the detour takes little more than 2 hours and is the best marked.

Mount Ngauruhoe. Everyone talks about it by the name that made it famous: Mount Doom. Indeed, it was its perfect cone, culminating at 2,287 meters, that was chosen as the "Mountain of Destiny" in the famous saga based on the novels by J.R.R. Tolkien. Unlike the other two volcanoes, this one has only one crater. Still active, it is said to have erupted more than seventy times since the arrival of Europeans in the region. Because of its fame, many hikers rush to its slopes unprepared. We strongly advise against it. There are no fixed paths, the terrain is essentially made up of very impassable ash and its 45° incline makes it an extremely complicated climb. What's more, the numerousfalling rocks caused by other walkers regularly result in injuries. Only the most experienced climbers will be able to attempt this detour in good weather, following the signs that indicate the safest route.

Mount Ruapehu. At 2,797 meters above sea level, this is the roof of the North Island. This volcano is still very active, so much so that its last eruptions in September 1995 and June 1996 sent ash as far as the east coast. The volcano has twice disrupted ski resort operations. Of the region's four resorts, three cling to its flanks: Whakapapa on the western slope, Turoa to the south and Tukino to the east. It dominates the crossing 's backdrop, but never comes close.

Transport: A shuttle bus is almost unavoidable on this trek. As the itinerary is not a loop, some people sometimes plan to go in two groups with two vehicles, which is mathematically forbidden as you are only allowed to leave your car in the parking lot for 4 hours, and the walk takes at least 6. In addition, those taking the trail from Ketetahi Road will be walking against the flow of all the other hikers, which, given how busy the trail is, can be very unpleasant.

Unless you have a friend willing to take a cab at the beginning and end of the day, you'll need to book a shuttle service.

Most accommodations organize their own shuttles to and from all tourist destinations in the region, so it's best to check with them directly. There are also a number of private shuttle companies. Information is available at the Visitor Centre or on the Internet.

Seasons

As you can see, even in the height of summer, weather conditions can give you a wintry feeling, especially at the summit! But if you're well equipped and prepared, there's no problem. In winter, however, it's advisable to venture out on the trail ONLY if you have mountaineering experience (and the right equipment, of course).

If you don't have mountaineering experience but really want to see the crossing under the snow (and we understand!), some companies offer guided expeditions with experienced guides. Clearly an unforgettable experience if you get the chance.

Symbolism and legend

The area you pass through on this hike is tapu - sacred - to the Maoris, so please show respect. In their own words: "We welcome you into our world, a world of respect and reciprocity, of protection of and devotion to the land, of incredible landscapes and epic legends, of profound reverence and spirituality. May the guardians of our mountains protect you, may the memories of your experience here remain forever in the warmth of your heart".

The legend evoked here is that of the four mountain warriors - Tongariro, Taranaki, Tauhara and Pūtauaki - fought for the love of Pihanga, a mountain-woman with whom they were all enamored. Tongariro won the battle, and the other mountains went into exile after their defeat. Tauhara left for the other side of Lake Taupō, from where it overlooks the city some 60 km to the north. Pūtauaki headed east, stopping at Kawerau. Taranaki, who was Tongariro's fiercest competitor, set off westwards, tracing a deep furrow in his path which became the bed of the Whanganui River, fed by Tongariro who, seeing the wound Taranaki had inflicted on the earth in his flight, created a spring to soothe it and fill it with water.
Today, Taranaki still mourns his lost love. It's said that when he's covered in clouds and lost in fog, he mourns the loss of his beloved. Conversely, when he's bathed in sunlight, he shows Tongariro his power and glory. Tongariro, for his part, sometimes spits smoke and ashes to remind his rival that it would be unwise of him to try to return.
The Maoris have long considered it unwise to settle between the two mountains, in case they decide to resume their fight for Pihanga.

If you have to visit only one geothermal site, this is it. Wai-o-Tapu (sacred waters) is New Zealand's Yellowstone. It's featured on every brochure extolling the country's beauty, and its photos have been seen around the world. The beauty of this reserve is reflected in its sumptuous hues: yellow for sulfur, reddish-brown for iron oxide, purple for manganese..

Also worth seeing are the Mud Pools, boiling pools of mud. Allow at least 2 hours to visit this magical place, cross the Champagne Pool and watch the Lady Knox Geyser awaken at 10.15 a.m. every day. The site is very touristy, but well laid out and absolutely unmissable. They allow you to fully appreciate the richness of the region's earth; you can soak up its vivid colors, so unusual in nature, and the smell of sulfur that gives these sites their personality, making them seem a little out of this world.

Guided tours are available to fully understand the cultural significance of these places. After the visit, and to avoid returning too quickly to the real world, you can relax in the on-site Café.

Your ticket allows you to enter and leave the park as you please, for 3 months! You can go to the park at 10 a.m. to watch Lady Knox erupt, and come back a little later for a stroll to avoid the crowds that often arrive immediately afterwards.

It's THE must-see in Wellington and THE must-see museum in New Zealand.

Te Papa Tongarewa means "the place of the treasures of this land". It's one of the country's most interesting museums, and a must-see when visiting the capital. Like most modern museums, it's interactive, with children's areas and lots of fun. The complex is spread over six floors, where you can spend hours or even days discovering the country.

The program includes geological features, flora and fauna, volcanoes, marine life, and even an outdoor reproduction of the bush, complete with native plants.

History and culture buffs will also learn more about the Maori world, the creation of the nation by the Treaty of Waitangi, colonization, the history of immigrants and refugees, and an impressive exhibition on the Battle of Gallipoli told through the experiences of 8 New Zealanders at the front (7 soldiers and a nurse); a must-see, if only for the life-like giant figures of these individuals, created by Weta Workshop. Considered one of the founding acts of the national community, this is an important event for New Zealanders, but also for Australians, who took part.

On the top floor, an art gallery offers a changing program, and there's access to an observation platform with beautiful views over the city. There's also a café and store at reception.

An absolute must for all those who appreciate Tolkien's universe from near and far! When he directed the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Peter Jackson was quick to spot that the green hills of the Waikato would be an ideal backdrop for Hobbiton, the stronghold of the Hobbits, those hairy-footed, peace-loving, good-natured mini-humans. The village they built was larger than life, but unfortunately, as it was made of fragile materials and not designed to last, the set was dismantled at the end of filming!

The Hobbit village we visit today is the one that was rebuilt for the filming of The Hobbit trilogy; and this time, lucky us, it was planned to keep it and open it to the public after filming.

The site is located near the town of Matamata. Visitors are welcomed a little way from the village itself, so we board a bus that takes us to our destination, then wander the alleys, zigzagging between houses in the company of a guide with a noggin full of fascinating anecdotes about Tolkien, Jackson and the Hobbits. The vegetable gardens are wonderfully tended, smoke billows from the chimneys, laundry dries on the curved tops of the houses... it's really like being there. We'll see Bilbo's house, Sam's house, the little lake, the little mill and, of course, the Green Dragon Inn, where we'll have a few minutes to enjoy a beer at the end of the tour. A must, really. Allow around 2h30 in total.

A symbol of the entire peninsula, it is reached by a path north of Hahei via the cliffs and through the woods, from where there are fine views of the horizon and coastline. Along the way, you'll find other small, pleasant bays, such as Gemstone Bay and the less-frequented Stingray Bay. Once there, the beauty of nature commands respect. Its beautiful white sand beach precedes the imposing boulders rising out of the water, as well as the limestone arches.

It's impossible to miss this tower, which serves as a radio and TV transmitter from the air when arriving by plane, from the open sea when arriving by water, or from the SH1 freeway. Built between 1994 and 1997, the Sky Tower rises to three hundred and twenty-eight metres and remains the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. Like the Eiffel Tower in the French capital, it is the landmark of Auckland and is visited by over a million people every year. Although it also houses casinos and restaurants, it's above all for its excellent panoramic view that you dare to climb this immense concrete frame. The elevator ride up is an experience in itself, thanks to its speed and the windows that reveal the city as you gain altitude. Once up there, two observatories are accessible, at one hundred and eighty-six meters and two hundred and twenty meters above sea level. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the CBD and the surrounding area. The port, the volcanoes, the islands, the different districts, the bay - it's all there, and you can even stand above the void on certain parts of the glass floor. Adrenalin junkies can also indulge in the skyjump, an unforgettable hundred-and-ninety-two-meter bungy between the surrounding skyscrapers. The skywalk is another option if you simply wish to walk to the top of the tower, on an outdoor platform and in complete safety.

Hamilton is famous for its beautiful gardens of 54 hectares, composed according to different themes: "Roses", "China", "Italy", and others. It is an opportunity for pleasant walks along the river or Lake Rotoroa. The team of this botanical garden focuses on different cultures of the last 4,000 years. More than gardens, they are true places of expression. This public garden is a historical place itself, once housing a shooting range, a dog training ground, a sand pit and a go-karting track. A café is on site.

It's a very interesting visit for all film lovers, especially Lord of the Rings fans. Weta Workshop worked hand-in-hand with Peter Jackson to create the sets, props, costumes and special effects for the famous trilogy. The international renown they won there has enabled them to collaborate on many other films since. A 45-minute tour featuring costumes, armor, weapons and models, punctuated by anecdotes and information on the secrets behind the making of the films. Reservations essential.

Mount Eden (Maungawhau) is one of the ancient volcanoes that make Auckland special. At 196 meters high, it offers one of the most beautiful views of the whole city, with a magnificent panorama and a plunging perspective on the CBD. If reaching the top of the Sky Tower is not in your budget, you should not hesitate to come and console yourself here. Long occupied by the Maoris and their pa, the crater is still clearly visible today. The path leading to the summit is paved. Remember to take water when it is very hot.

Strangely not very vertical for falls, they almost look more like rapids. And rapids they are! With a water flow of 220,000 liters per second, Huka Falls would take just 11 seconds to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool! Known for their intense crystalline blue color (particularly impressive on a clear day), these falls are one of New Zealand's most visited and photographed natural attractions. Several trails lead to them, including one linking them to the center of Taupō.

A famous beach to the south of Hahei, Hot Water Beach is home to hot springs. At low tide and armed with a shovel, many visitors dig their own little pool in the sand, to turn it into a private spa. Underground fissures allow the hot water to seep in quickly, although beware of the temperature, which can rise very high. On the other hand, it should be noted that the strength of the currents makes swimming in the bay dangerous, and we strongly advise against it. Beware, this is a very busy address.

Opened in 1959, the huge Auckland Harbour Bridge has become part of the city's landscape and is quite impressive in size: 1,020 meters long, 243 meters wide and 43 meters high. If everyone can cross it by car, it is closed to pedestrians and cyclists and you will have to pay to climb its arches or to jump from the top of the bridge on a bungy. The fall of about forty meters in the bay of the city is quite spectacular.

Located 20 minutes south of Rotorua and 45 minutes north of Taupo, this geothermal park is set in a nature reserve at the bottom of a valley. It's well worth the detour, as it's a superb site. It's recommended to spend at least an hour there, but you can easily get absorbed by the beauty of the landscapes and geothermal manifestations and spend 4 hours or more, if you like to take your time. You can extend your visit with a cruise on Lake Rotomahana, following in the footsteps of the Pink and White Terraces, destroyed by the eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886.

This is the best-known company. Each cave is very different, and it's best to see them all:

Glowworm Cave. A 45-minute tour that attracts busloads of tourists. Inside, thousands of glowworms glitter on the cave walls like stars in the sky. A 5-minute boat trip above the "starry" sky is also a great experience.

Ruakuri Cave. The 1h30 tour combines limestone formations with glowworms.

Aranui Cave. A one-hour tour of a "normal" cave without glowworms.

This is a mythical den. Its name comes from the volcano, Mount Eden, on which it sits. It had the honor of hosting the first match in a Rugby World Cup in 1987, between the All Blacks and Italy. And it was at this match that the famous haka, previously reserved for overseas tours, was performed for the first time in a home match. A few weeks later, New Zealand lifted the inaugural World Cup at Eden Park.

Located just over an hour's drive from downtown Auckland, Karekare beach is a wonderful place to watch the sun set. This very large black sand beach offers other advantages, including a daytime stroll to Kare Kare waterfalls and/or the dunes. You may not have noticed, but this beach became famous thanks to Jane Campion's film The Piano Lesson. There are public toilets and plenty of parking space. Watch out for the winding road to get there.

Accessible by road despite its name (Aroha Island), this 5-hectare peninsula is a reserve home to over fifty species of birds. Forest and beach walks, kayaking and picnics are all on the agenda, and guided kiwi-watching tours are organized after dark. Camping, cottage and lodge accommodation is also available. There's a visitor center on site. This is a high-quality eco-center.

Shakespear Regional Park covers the tip of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, "Whale Bay" in Maori. Walkers and bikers can enjoy the beaches and trails, such as the Heritage Trail (2-hour round trip), which starts at Waterfall Gully and passes ancient Polynesian sites. The Lookout Track (90-minute round trip) offers 360-degree views of Auckland and the Gulf Islands. The Tiri Tiri Track (2.5 hours round trip) passes through an ancient pa and along the coastline from which Tiritiri Matangi is visible.

Frank Kitts Park is very pleasant. You will have the most beautiful views of the capital (night and day) from Tinakori Hill. The view will probably be better from Hawkins Hill to the south, near which a wind turbine was built as part of a "modern" experimental electricity plan (giant wind turbine). Finally, from Mount Victoria, the panorama on the city, the Hutt Valley and the Cook Strait is incoutournable.

It was here, 2 km from Paihia, that New Zealand was born as a nation, and this site is one of the most important in the country's history and culture. You should plan to spend half a day here to really enjoy it. On this hill overlooking the Bay of Islands and offering superb panoramic views of the surrounding area, between 43 and 46 Maori rangatira chiefsgathered on February 6, 1840 to sign the Te Tiriti o Waitangi with the British Crown and mark the beginning of a new era, which would then see Queen Victoria's sovereignty proclaimed over the country through Captain Hobson. Long and bitter debates ensued before over five hundred signatures were affixed across the two islands, with translation problems still raising questions today. The Treaty of Waitangi consists of three articles, the actual terms of which are still open to interpretation.

A visit to the Treaty Grounds will reveal everything you need to know about this major event, its protagonists, the many negotiations and misunderstandings it gave rise to, and its consequences. On site, in the heart of the green countryside, you'll discover a modern, well-informed museum, with objects and documents from the period, as well as an explanatory video.

The discovery continues with a fifty-minuteguided tour of the entire estate, from James Busby's Treaty House to the Carved Meeting House (Te Whare Rūnanga), via the gigantic Ngātokimatawhaorua, the longest waka (canoe) in the country at 35 meters long and with a maximum capacity of 130 people on board. This waka required three large kauris (a species of tree sacred and endemic to Te Ika-a-Maui). It was on a waka like this that the first Polynesians arrived. Equipped with an audioguide, you'll enjoy your guide's animations and anecdotes about Maori culture, the origin of the two national flags, relations between the first Europeans and the locals, a sharing of knowledge about Aotearoa's flora and fauna, and much more. You need to book for this guided tour at the following times: 10am, 12pm, 2pm or 3:30pm.

The other highlight of your visit to Waitangi Treaty Grounds will undoubtedly be the half-hour cultural performance, which includes an impressive traditional haka and a moment of dance, song and music. As with the guided tour, you'll need to book a slot between 11am, 1pm or 3pm.