Tongariro National Park , New Zealand

2 Hour Pre Sunset Guided Group Walk

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(17 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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About this experience

One of Tongariro National Park’s best short walks, the easy 2 hour loop to Taranaki Falls is jam-packed with fascinating natural sights and excellent mountain views. A superb way to experience the Tongariro National Park and enjoy this stunning time of day.

Enjoy a chilled refreshment while you take in the sights of the Taranaki Falls tumbling 20 metres over the edge of a large lava flow, which erupted from Ruapehu 15,000 years ago. Your guide will talk about the area with their local knowledge of geology, volcanology and New Zealand cultural history.

This walk is a terrific option for tour groups and individuals short on time or looking to maximize a travel day to or from Tongariro National Park.

Available options

2 Hour Pre Sunset Guided Group Walk

What's included

Professional and qualified guide/s.

Chilled refreshment

Footwear and clothing to supplement up to a NZD60 free allowance.

Live tour commentary provided in English.

Detailed itinerary

Take in the sights of the Taranaki Falls tumbling 20 metres over the edge of a large lava flow, which erupted from Ruapehu 15,000 years ago. Your guide will talk about the area with their local knowledge of geology, volcanology and New Zealand cultural history.

The easy 2 hour loop to Taranaki Falls is jam-packed with fascinating natural sights and excellent mountain views.

Admire Mt Ngauruhoe in distance during the golden hour before sunset.

Admire Mt Tongariro in distance during the golden hour before sunset.

What's not included

Gratuities

Beverages, bottled water, or snacks

Transfers

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

It is essential all clients phone the Adrift Tongariro base between 10:00am - 5:00pm the day prior to trip date to confirm tour departure time and discuss exact timings. +64 7892 2751. Each participant to fill out a waiver prior to arriving on site. Look out for your link or QR code in your inbox 3 days before your tour date.

A minimum of 2 people is required for this tour to operate. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Tour starts and finishes at the Whakapapa Visitor Centre in the Whakapapa Village.

Our preferred route is the Taranaki Falls loop track.

Gear List: Water, outdoor shoes with grip, long walking pants, 2 x warm tops and a raincoat.

Track is well formed. Surfaces vary between boardwalks, stairs, dirt or gravel.

Meeting point

Tour starts and finishes at the Whakapapa Information Centre. Please call Adrift Tongariro between 10:00am - 5:00pm the day prior to confirm tour departure time. +64 7892 2751. Our preferred route is the Taranaki Falls loop track.

Important notes

It is essential that all clients phone the Adrift Tongariro base between 10:00am – 5:00pm the day prior to the tour date to reconfirm tour departure time and discuss exact timings and weather impacts. +64 7 8922 751

Each participant to fill out a waiver prior to arriving on site. Look out for your link or QR code in your inbox 3 days before your tour date.

Safety regarding, weather, avalanche, ice and hypothermia are taken into consideration when securing our exact route for the day.

For full terms and conditions including cancellation, postponement and weather policy please visit our website www.adriftnz.co.nz

About Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage Site known for its volcanic landscapes, Maori cultural significance, and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It offers diverse hiking trails, skiing, and stunning natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

This 19.4 km (12.1 miles) day hike is considered one of the best one-day hikes in the world, offering stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse terrain.

Adventure/Nature 6-8 hours Free, but guided tours are available for a fee

Mount Ruapehu

The highest mountain in the North Island, offering skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Adventure/Nature Full day for hiking, half day for skiing Free for hiking, ski passes required for skiing

Whakapapa Village

A gateway to the park with visitor facilities, museums, and cultural exhibits.

Cultural/Nature A few hours Free to explore, small fees for exhibits

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

Traditional Maori meal cooked in an earth oven with meat, vegetables, and sometimes puddings.

Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan if requested

Lamb

New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, often grilled or roasted.

Dinner Meat dish

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Mountain biking Scenic drives Cultural exhibits Maori cultural experiences Visiting historical sites Fishing in nearby lakes and rivers

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer offers the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is most popular during this time.

15-25°C (59-77°F) 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tongariro National Park is generally safe, but weather conditions can change rapidly.

Important Precautions:

• Carry appropriate gear for hikes.
• Check weather conditions before heading out.
• Stay on marked trails.

Getting there

By air

Auckland Airport • 320 km (200 miles) from Tongariro National Park

By train

National Park Village

By bus

National Park Village

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but not frequent. Schedule in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

National Park Village Whakapapa Village

Day trips

Mount Ngauruhoe

20 km (12 miles) from National Park Village • Full day

A challenging hike to the summit of an active volcano, offering stunning views.

Ohakune

30 km (19 miles) from National Park Village • Half day

A charming town known for its carrot-themed attractions and access to the park.

Festivals

Tongariro Alpine Crossing Festival • February

Pro tips

Start the Tongariro Alpine Crossing early to avoid afternoon weather changes.
Carry layers of clothing as weather can change rapidly.
Book accommodations and shuttle services in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Check weather conditions before heading out on hikes.
Respect Maori cultural sites and traditions.