Additions to your bucket list?

Taranaki Falls loop walk is located just behind the Tongariro Chateau on the road up to the Whakapapa ski fields.

During the colder winter season many tourists are looking for an invigorating walk/tramp in the National Park – but this is when the Tongariro Crossing is too difficult (read too dangerous!). This alternative 2 hour tramp is the ideal walk in all weather conditions. The location is about 45 minutes drive time from TRM situated on the short street immediately behind the Chateau Tongariro.

Behind Taranaki Falls

Take the lower loop through native bush to emerge at the base of the falls. Do not forget to explore and look out from behind the falls. Quite sensational. Then climb the track to return on an alpine walk on the more exposed altitude. Many have suggested this is better than the Tongariro Crossing taking only two hours and enjoying similar views plus having a choice of cafes at the finish. Strongly recommended.

If this is too long or the weather at higher altitude looks too threatening there is another alternative – a short 10 minute walk to a waterfall known as Tawhai Falls aka Gollams Falls. This is on the same road – SH48 or Bruce Raod – up to the chateau located at a lower level.

All kids will be able to identify with this spot as where Gollam devoured his raw trout! That Lord of the Rings film exposure makes it a “must–see” on every tourist bucket list.

Both these waterfalls also feature on TRM’s short video of the best day tramp in this region – to climb to the summit (2797m) of Mt. Ruapehu. This is recommended for late summer only as full winter gear with crampons, guides, etc. are necessary during the colder skiing season. It is far more spectacular than the Tongariro Crossing and only half the distance as the chairlift takes trampers half-way up – so start planning and book your accommodation now.

The short TRM video below is compulsory viewing to indicate what you might expect. The facilities are now improved with the chairlift replaced by gondolas. Even when the extra cost of these is factored in, it is still very worthwhile as many tourists go just for the ride.

Leave the crowded over-hyped Tongariro Crossing for tourists and achieve something really memorable on your bucket list next summer. Book now!