Explore Ruapehu

The Ruapehu region takes its name from the sacred Mt Ruapehu. 

Pronouced 'Roo-a -pe-hoo", the Maori translation of this name relates to its volcanic history.  Rua = pit and pehu = to explode.  At 2 797 metres, Mt Ruapehu is the highest mountain in the North Island.

Mt Ruapehu's eight named glaciers are the only glaciers in the North Island and the sacred Crater Lake (on top of the mountain) is one of only three in the world surrounded by snow and ice.

This mountain is a haven for skiing & snowboarding enthusiasts who flock to the ski fields of Turoa and Whakapapa during the winter.  The smaller club field of Tukino, on the eastern flanks provides yet another experience.   In summertime scenic chairlift rides on Whakapapa and Turoa offer unsurpassed, spectacular views over the central North Island.

Not One but Two National Parks

The region is home to two national parks - Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park, which includes the Whanganui River.  The surrounding landscape features some of New Zealand's most diverse landscape and flora and fauna.   There is barren, windswept, desert like landscape, pristine streams and rivers, active volcanoes, and fertile farm lands.

The region has been a magnet for film makers, the most famous being the Lord of the Rings and River Queen.