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In 1993 Tongariro National Park became the first property to be inscribed on the World Heritage List under the revised criteria describing cultural landscapes. The mountains at the heart of the park have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people and symbolize the spiritual links between this community and its environment. The park has active and extinct volcanoes, a diverse range of ecosystems and some spectacular landscapes.
Established in 1887, Tongariro was the first national park in New Zealand and the fourth in the world. It is also a dual World Heritage area, a status which recognises the park's important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features.
It is a place of extremes and surprises, a place to explore and remember. From herb fields to forests, from tranquil lakes to desert-like plateau and active volcanoes - Tongariro has them all.
Location
Tongariro National Park is located in the central North Island of New Zealand. The nearest towns are Turangi, National Park and Ohakune.
Weather changes very quickly here. Take good clothing even on sunny days. Cases of hypothermia are relatively common on this track due to poorly equipped people attempting the walk.
Matai Lodge Ohakune (Youth Hostel)
* The Crossing Backpackers, Erua Road East (off SH4), 07 892 2894, [url=http://www.thecrossingbackpackers.co.nz].]Backpackers and lodge with dorms, rooms and motel style family units. Global Gossip computers and WiFi, on site paintball arena, lots of free parking, big screen TV and Projector Room and much more. Price range from $15-120.
* The Park Hotel Ruapehu, 2/6 Millar Street, National Park Village, National Park, Tongariro, [url=http://www.the-park.co.nz/[/url].]affordable accommodation to suit all budgets - upmarket dorms, private rooms and motel style family units. Free parking, large lounge with open fireplace, on-site bar and restaurant. Tongariro Crossing packages including breakfast, packed lunches and transport to and from the Tongariro Crossing track.
* Riverstone Backpackers [http://www.riverstonebackpackers.com/[/url], Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport, phone 64 7 386 7004, 222 Tautahanga Rd Turangi. Purpose built 18 person character backpackers. Set amongst native gardens with new kitchen, open plan living area and huge sun deck. Heaters in all bedrooms, blankets, full laundry facilities and always-hot showers. Log burning fire, fully insulated building and windows double-glazed. BBQ, hammocks, walk in drying room, and specialised gear storage facilities for snow and fishing gear. Fast Internet, Skype and laptop access.
* Tongariro Holiday Park State Highway 47 Phone 07 386 8062. Positioned in the middle of the start and finish point it is in an excellent location to do the crossing without spending ages on a bus, has room for tents, campervans with electrical feed and a wide range of cabins. Site facilities include hot showers, laundry, communal kitchen with oven, hobs etc, tv and games room and a spa.prices range from $17-160
Tongariro Holiday Park Has a choice of camping ground, powered sites for campervans or Cabins ranging from basic to ensuite and 2 self contained units with tv, shower, queen bed and cooking facilities.