Volcanoes and one of the world's great day hikes
Tongariro is New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual World Heritage site, recognised for both its volcanic landscape and its deep significance to Māori. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a full-day hike of about 19 kilometres, climbs past steaming vents and the vivid Emerald Lakes. The weather changes fast, so go prepared and book a shuttle; in winter, Ruapehu's slopes become ski fields.