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Tongariro is a world heritage site in New Zealand that revolves around its central attractions namely Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. A gift from Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV in 1887, the Tongariro National Park is also a major skiing and hiking destination in New Zealand. There is no need to be scared of the active volcanoes as the backdrop since the eruption warning system is an efficient one. You wouldn't stop going to the Alps for fear of avalanches, would you?
The Legend of Tongariro National Park New Zealand
Like any other natural resource in New Zealand, the mountains in the Tongariro national park are also associated with Maori legends. According this tale, the high priest Ngatoroirangi went exploring the slopes of Tongariro. Instead of gentle snow falling down his mane, he got a snowstorm that froze him over. And like any high priest in his situation would do, he called out to Hawaiki (his ancestral home in Polynesia) to send some fire his way so that he could again be free from the grips of Tongariro's snow. His wishes were answered and the Pacific Ring of Fire was born.
Tourist Attractions in Tongariro National Park New Zealand
Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro are legendary volcanic mountains that have played host adventure sports enthusiasts loving every moment of their stay on the snow-covered slopes. The classic cone-like crater of Ngauruhoe is another vent of Tongariro that makes for a most exhilarating trekking route in Tongariro National Park. Besides featuring in a number of documentaries and homemade films, the mountains recently made their debut appearance in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Flora and Fauna in Tongariro National Park New Zealand
While the mountain summits are dotted with steam vents, extensive massifs, ancient lava flows and thermal pools and lakes, the lower reaches of the mountains are draped in thick forest cover that seem like a sea of black ink from the peak. Besides being home to the native animals and birds of New Zealand, it is also the home of the famous short and long tailed bats.
Activities in Tongariro National Park New Zealand
The Tongariro Crossing is a hit with hikers looking for a challenging route each summer. The steaming crater, old lava flows and thermal pools are the welcome challenges while the view of Lake Taupo surrounded by volcanic vegetation is refreshing sight. From the summit you can even spot the Mt Taranaki, who ran away from the wrath of Tongariro, standing amidst the natural heritage typical to Egmont National Park.
The treks can last from anywhere between few hours (walks to waterfalls) to many days (round the mountain track). Skiing on the fields on Ruapehu, and white water rafting and fishing on Tongariro river form the other popular tourist activities at the Tongariro National Park, with Tours to New Zealand packages.
Accommodation in Tongariro National Park New Zealand
You can camp at the many designated campsites or in the hiker's huts provided by Department of Conservation, New Zealand. You can also stay at the hotels and motels available at Turangi, National Park and Ohakune, with Tours to New Zealand packages.
Tours to New Zealand offers tour bookings and travel packages for tours to Tongariro National Park New Zealand.
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