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November 20, 2015

DOC Summer programme – Outdoor Adventure activities

Every year TRM guests comment that they wish they had heard about the DOC Summer Programme – usually after they arrive to discover the activity or trip they wanted is booked out.  So for 2016 there is no excuse.  For four days TRM Daily Report is devoted to the various activities.  Yesterday was “family fun” activities.  Today are the “Outdoor Adventure” activities.

Trip calendar

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
Dec 28 29 30 31 Jan 01Come fly with me 02 03Discover Lake Rotopounamu
04 05 06Waipakihi heli-hike 07 08Owhango Alive 09Boyd Oamaru heli-hike 10
11Wild at heart 12Wet & wild with whio 13Sulphur & secrets 14Poronui mountain bike trip 15Okupata caves adventure 16Historic Old Coach Road wander 17Great Lake Trail with Bike Taupo
18Wairakei Wildlife Sanctuary 19Let’s go Tongariro 20Fish Lake Taupo 21 22Te Maari eruption 23Landscape photography course 24
25 26 27 28 29 30Tussock Traverse

 

Waipakihi heli-hike

Book online

 Wednesday 6 January 2016 | Tramping. Set off by helicopter towards the stunning Waipakahi Valley where a river walk awaits.

There are not many walks that start with such a thrilling take off, but this is certainly one of them.

Setting off by helicopter from the Desert Road towards the stunning Waipakahi Valley in the Kaimanawa Forest Park, be prepared for breathtaking scenery, native flora and fauna and plenty of standout photo opportunities, as well as some exciting river crossings sure to leave your socks soggy.

Event details

Date: Wednesday 6 January 2016

Time: 8:15 am

Meeting place: 5 km down Waipakihi Road, 40 km south of Turangi, off SH 1 (Desert Road) (See on Google maps (external site))

Cost: $135 per person

Age: 10+

Grade: 4

Maximum participants: 40

Waipakihi River.
One of the many crossings through the pristine Waipakihi River.

What to bring

  • Warm, waterproof and windproof clothing
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Sturdy tramping boots
  • Sunglasses/sunscreen/hat
  • Lunch, snacks and drink
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Waipakihi River. PHOTO: Jimmy Johnson.

Waipakihi River tracks

Head up the Waipakihi River Valley, a popular option for hunters to access the tops, or a great day out for swimming in the summer.

Boyd Oamaru heli-hike

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Saturday 9 January 2016 | Tramping. Take off by helicopter to the remote Boyd Airstrip nestled in the heart of the Kaimanawa Forest Park for a walk like no other.

Take off by helicopter to the remote Boyd Airstrip nestled in the heart of the Kaimanawa Forest Park for a walk like no other.

You’ll want sturdy footwear as you tackle this 15 km hike, which weaves its way through the beautiful Oamaru Valley to the headwaters of the mighty Mohaka River. You can expect river crossings and the possibility of fallen trees, but never a dull moment. Be prepared for an abundance of serenity, natural beauty and postcard worthy photo opportunities.

You’ll have a chance to rest the weary legs as you fly by helicopter back to your vehicle.

Event details

Date: Saturday 9 January 2016

Length: Approx. 9 hours with a 5 – 6 hour walk

Time: 7:15 am

Meeting place: Helisika airport, at the end of Taharua Road off SH 5 south of Taupo (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: $185 per person

Age: 13+

Grade: 5 – one significant climb, several river crossings, possible fallen trees to negotiate

Maximum participants: 24

Minimum participants: 17

Oamaru Valley in Kaimanawa Forest Park.
Oamaru Valley in Kaimanawa Forest Park

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Sturdy tramping boots
  • Waterproof and windproof clothing
  • Sunglasses/sunscreen/hat
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Lunch, snacks and drink
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication

Weather on the Central Plateau is notoriously changeable. If you are adequately equipped activities will be enjoyable, otherwise they can be cold and miserable. DOC reserves the right to refuse participation if you are not adequately equipped.

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Kaimanawa Forest Park.

Kaimanawa Forest Park

You can enjoy many activities in Kaimanawa Forest Park in the Turangi/Taupo area. Permits are required for hunting and fishing. Access over private land is by permission only

Wet & wild with whio

Book online

Tuesday 12 January 2016 | Rafting, Wildlife. Jump on board a raft and get set to explore the upper part of the Tongariro River while hearing all about the very special blue duck.

Want to learn more about the very special blue duck without sitting in a classroom?

Jump onboard a raft and get set to explore the Grade 3, upper part of the Tongariro River. Hear about this unique and iconic local bird and discuss how you can be a part of ensuring these white water specialists stick around for many years to come.

Finish up with a visit to the new whio crèche at the Tongariro National Trout Centre.

Event details

Date: Tuesday 12 January 2016

Length: Half day trip with 2 ½ – 3 hours on the river

Time: 7:30 am

Meeting place: Tongariro River Rafting, Atirau Road, Turangi (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: $105 per person

Age: 12+

Grade: 3

Maximum participants: 20

Minimum participants: 4

Rafting on the Tongariro River.
Rafting on the Tongariro River

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Swimwear
  • Towel

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Blue duck/whio. Photo: © Sabine Bernert.

Blue duck/whio

The whio/blue duck is only found in New Zealand. It is a nationally vulnerable species and faces a risk of becoming extinct.

Poronui mountain bike trip

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Thursday 14 January 2016 | Mountain biking. Explore the fringes of the Mohaka River and Poronui Station like never before.

Following sections of the Poronui poled route you’ll head toward a lookout point, which offers views of the mighty Oamaru/Mohaka confluence. The track follows sections of gravel road, some single track through pasture and 4WD track. Settle down for a picnic lunch or for the more adventurous, head off on a scenic walk through beech forest to the nearby Oamaru Hut (4 km return).

This is an exclusive trip, so ensure you secure your spot to take advantage of this opportunity, exploring areas not normally open to mountain biking.

Event details

Date: Thursday 16 January 2016

Length: 4 – 5 hours; 24 km return ride

Time: 8:45 am

Meeting place: Poronui Station gate, at the end of Taharua Road off SH 5 south of Taupo (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: Adults: $15; Children: $10

Age: 10+

Grade: 3 – this is not a technical ride and has no major climbs or descents, but is set at Grade 3 because of the distance covered.

Transport: Own car

Maximum participants: 60

What to bring

  • Sunscreen
  • Suitable cycling clothes including warm and waterproof clothing, and shoes
  • Gloves and helmet
  • Lunch and drink – there is no water on route so bring at least 2 litres of water
  • Swimming togs
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication
  • Mountain bike in good condition
  • Puncture repair kit and spare tube
  • Bike pump

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Okupata Caves adventure

Book online

Friday 15 January 2016 | Family fun, Caving. Come and explore the magic of the Okupata limestone caves lying quietly beneath the Tongariro Forest.

Wade through an underground stream beneath the cover of darkness, and among the labyrinth of caves home to glow worms, unique limestone formations and native cave wetas. Experience the stillness of this underground world and squeeze through gaps via the glow of torchlight.

Event details

Date: Friday 15 January 2016

Length: 3 hours

Time: 8:45 am and 11:45 am

Meeting place: Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre, Whakapapa Village (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: $5 per person

Age: 6+

Grade: 2 – includes moving through confined spaces, getting wet to at least knee height and crawling through shallow water

Transport: Drive own car or car pool 20 km to the caves (some of this is on gravel roads)

Maximum participants: 16

Minimum participants: 6

Okupata Caves.
Okupata Caves

What to bring

  • Warm clothes (clothes will get wet and dirty)
  • Gloves
  • Raincoat
  • Sturdy boots
  • Torch and spare batteries – you will not be allowed into the cave without a torch
  • Bicycle helmet – you will not be allowed into the cave without a helmet
  • Snack and drink
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication
  • Dry shoes and spare clothes for afterwards.

If you are adequately equipped, activities will be enjoyable, otherwise they can be cold and miserable. DOC reserves the right to refuse participation if you are not adequately equipped.

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Okupata Cave in the Whakapapa area of Tongariro National Park.

Okupata Caves

Explore a network of underground passages.

Historic Old Coach Road wander

Book online

Saturday 16 January 2016 | Walking. Trace the steps of the past as you make your way along Horopito’s historic Old Coach Road.

Starting at Horopito, meander towards Hapuawhenua Viaduct before finishing up at Ohakune. This is a gentle walk for those craving a slice of Central Plateau history, including the construction of the North Island Main Trunk Railway.

Experience how the development of the cycle way has promoted a range of recreation and tourism opportunities in the community.

Event details

Date: Saturday 16 January 2016

Length: Approx. 6 ½ hours with a 4 – 5 hour walk across easy terrain

Time: 8:30 am

Meeting place: Marshalls Road car park, Ohakune (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: $35 per person

Age: 10+

Grade: 3

Transport: Transport will be provided to the start of the walk in Horopito, and from the end of the track at Ohakune to the DOC Office.

Maximum participants: 20

Minimum participants: 10

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Sturdy tramping boots
  • Waterproof and windproof clothing
  • Sunglasses/sunscreen/sunhat
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Lunch and drink
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Ohakune Old Coach Road.

Ohakune Old Coach Road

Take a trip back into New Zealand’s rail heritage while you walk or cycle an old coach road. The road was used to carry passengers and goods between two railheads on the North Island main trunk link before they were linked in 1908.

Great Lake Trail with Bike Taupo

Book online

Sunday 17 January 2016 | Mountain biking. Experience the newest sections of the Great Lake Trail, guided by the people who built the track.

The ride will take you along the Waihaha River to the edge of Lake Taupo, then north on the Waihora Link. Pass through valleys and along cliff tops and enjoy spectacular views across the lake. The ride is not technical but a good level of fitness is required. Finish the day with a refreshing dip in the lake and a boat shuttle back to Kinloch.

Event details

Date: Sunday 17 January 2016

Length: 4 hours; 30 km ride

Time: 8:00 am

Meeting place: The Great Lake Trail bike shelter on the Kinloch Domain (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: $90 per person

Age: 10+

Grade: 3 

Transport: Shuttle from Kinloch to Waihaha; water transfer from the end of the trail at Waihora back to Kinloch

Maximum participants: 28

Minimum participants: 10

Enjoy spectacular views over Lake Taupo.
Enjoy spectacular views as you ride over the high cliffs above the western bays of Lake Taupo

What to bring

  • Sunscreen
  • Suitable clothing for cycling including waterproof clothing and shoes
  • Gloves and helmet
  • Lunch and drink – there is no water on route so bring at least 2 litres of water
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication
  • Mountain bike in good condition
  • Puncture repair kit and spare tube
  • Bike pump
  • Swimwear and towel.

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

 

Te Maari eruption

Book online

Friday 22 January 2016 | Tramping. This is a unique and challenging tramping experience, hiking through areas impacted by the 2012 Te Maari eruption.

GNS scientist Nico Fournier will describe the science of an active volcanic system as you traverse through this special landscape. Insightful and eye opening, this is a taste of the local volcanic landscape like never before.

Event details

Date: Friday 22 January 2016

Length: Approx. 9 hours with a 5 – 6 hour walk

Time: 7:15 am

Meeting place: Turangi i-SITE to drive in convoy to SH46. Carpool possible. (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: free

Age: 14+

Grade: 5 – high level of fitmess required, some hiking off track through vegetation and uneven ground

Maximum participants: 20

Minimum participants: 10

Te Maari
GNS Scientist Nico Fournier up close to Te Maari

What to bring

  • Waterproof and warm clothing
  • Packed lunch and water
  • Sturdy tramping boots
  • Walking poles
  • Sunglasses / sunscreen / sunhat
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Snacks, lunch and drinks
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Camera (optional)

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Te Maari crater eruption on Mt Tongariro, 21 November 2012.

Mt Tongariro eruption

Learn about the 2012 volcanic eruptions of Te Maari craters on the northern slopes of Mt Tongariro.

Landscape photography course

Book online

Saturday 23 January 2016 | Walking. Join experienced local photographer, and past winner in the International Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards, Andy Aanensen for an insightful workshop on the art of landscape photography.

Capture the beauty of our natural surrounds and display it as a keepsake for years to come.

Join experienced local photographer, and past winner in the International Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards, Andy Aanensen for an insightful workshop on the art of landscape photography.

Put theory into practice as you set off along the Taranaki Falls Track where you’ll have the freedom to shoot the stunning sub-alpine environment that surrounds you. Head back to the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre to take a peek at your work and that of the group, and listen out for hot tips on how to edit your work.

Event details

Date: Saturday 23 January 2016

Time: 8 am

Meeting place: Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre, Whakapapa Village (See on Google Maps (external site))

Cost: $5

Age: 12+

Grade: 2

Maximum participants: 20

Minimum participants: 2

Reflection of Mount Ruapehu.
Reflection of Mount Ruapehu

What to bring

  • Camera
  • Warm, waterproof and windproof clothing
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Sturdy tramping boots
  • Sunglasses/sunscreen/hat
  • Lunch and drink
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication

Cancellations

The decision to cancel a trip is often unable to be made until just before the scheduled departure time. If a decision to cancel a trip is made earlier, details will be posted on this page and the Project Tongariro Facebook page, (external site) and left in a message on the Mahi Aroha information line 0800 362 925.

Full details will accompany your trip booking confirmation.

Further information

Call the Mahi Aroha information line on 0800 362 925, or

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone: +64 7 892 3729
Address: Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Email: tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Full office details

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Related

Tama Lakes.

Whakapapa Village walking tracks

Slightly more demanding than short walks these walking tracks are either accessible from Whakapapa Village on foot or require a short drive to the start of the track.

Tussock Traverse

Saturday 30 January 2016 | Mountain running, Tramping. The ever-challenging Tussock Traverse trail running event offers both runners and walkers one of the most scenic and varying courses in New Zealand.

Calling all cross-country enthusiasts, here is the activity for you.

The ever-challenging Tussock Traverse trail running event offers both runners and walkers one of the most scenic and varying courses in New Zealand. Head out on a 27 km route across Tongariro National Park through Rangipo Desert along the Waihohonu Track and over the saddle past Tama Lakes to the iconic Whakapapa Village.

This is a must-tick-off-your-list activity. Explore the area like never before one step in front of the other and take in the beauty of your surroundings while conquering this hardcore trail event.

Event details

Date: Saturday 30 January 2016

Entries and further information: Tussock Traverse website (external site)

Tussock Traverse.
Tussock Traverse

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