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Welcome to Ruapehu
Escape the City... Visit Ruapehu where Mountain Biking Adventure Begins!!!
Whatever your mountain biking ability, the Ruapehu region has a ride for you. Book a weekend, bring your bikes (or hire locally) and discover two National Parks; Tongariro and Whanganui, right here in the centre of New Zealand's North Island. The following are just a few great Ruapehu rides:
- Bridge to Nowhere
- Ohakune Old Coach Road
- Fishers Track
- 42 Traverse
- Forgotten World Highway
Two new National Cycle Trails will officially open within the Ruapehu this year. The “Mountains to Sea” and “The Central North Island Rail Trail (The Timber Trail)” are part of the Governments network of cycle trails. The Mountains to Sea starts at Turoa ski area and ends in Whanganui encompassing an historic Old Coach Road, the Bridge to Nowhere, remnants of farming settlements on the banks of the Whanganui River plus an abundance of native birdlife, waterfalls and lush native forest.
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Two National Parks, one great Region
The UNESCO Dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park is also home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing while Whanganui National Park is home to the Whanganui River and New Zealand’s largest population of small brown kiwi. Several Ruapehu locations were used to film “Lord of the Rings” and more recently “The Hobbit”.
Ruapehu region - get in the know!
There are heaps of cycleways in the Ruapehu region to explore this summer. Don't miss out. Here is just one - the 42 Traverse but check out more information on the Mountains to Sea and Central North Island Rail Trails now.
Mountains to Sea hikoi - 26-28 April
The cycle trail partners, invite you to attend any or all of a three day hikoi to celebrate the completion of the Mountains to Sea - Nga Ara Tuhono cycle trail.
Why Visit?
More Activities »
Skiing & Snowboardin... »
There is some great spring skiing to be had at Turoa and Whakapapa. Check out the slope information and book your accommodation now.
Trekking »
A haven for trekkers and trampers, the rugged, majestic and volcanic landscape reveals its fascinating self at each turn. Check out the hikes, treks & walks in the Ruapehu.
Mountain Biking »
Explore the inspiring and challenging landscape in the region. Two bike trails to check out are the Central North Island Rail Trail and Mountains to Sea. They are both part of the National Cycleway Project.