Mt Ruapehu is mainly known for winter adventures on the North Island’s most popular snowy mountain.
But what about Mt Ruapehu in summer?
During the summer months, Mt Ruapehu bares its winter coat and exposes its unique beauty in its rawest and most breath-taking form.
The ski fields may be closed over the summer, but that shouldn’t stop you from discovering the summer playground that Mt Ruapehu has to offer.
Keep reading to discover what unique experiences you and your family can have over the summer season at Mt Ruapehu.
What is Mt Ruapehu known for?
Towering above the desert as the centrepiece of New Zealand’s north island, the majestic Mount Ruapehu is an active volcano with awe-inspiring photo-worthy views.
The exceptional alpine terrain is capped off by its own crater lake, warmed by volcanic activity, steaming at the summit.
Mt Ruapehu is also known as the ‘Lord of the Rings Volcano’, made famous by Peter Jackson’s film trilogy where he shot some of his ‘Lord of the Rings’ footage around the mountain.
Tourists worldwide come to experience Mt Ruapehu – snow enthusiasts, sightseers, adventurers, nature lovers and families of all ages.
Summer activities at Mt Ruapehu
There is so much to do this summer at Mt Ruapehu. Whether it’s mountain biking, hiking, sightseeing, water sports, Ruapehu Golf, or shopping and dining, there’s something for everyone.
Below, we have listed some unique must-dos for summer that Mt Ruapehu offers!
Experience New Zealand’s longest and fasted Gondola ride
If you’re not a big adventurer, you can still experience a thrilling escape while enjoying a relaxing ride in style with the Sky Waka gondola ride.
This is truly a unique experience in itself!
In fact, many visitors that arrive in Mt Ruapehu come just for this. It’s easy to see why!
This spectacular ride with stunning views takes you into the clouds at 2,020 metres above sea level, where you will have time to soak in the ancient lava flows, waterfalls, rocky mountains and the detailed landscapes of Mt Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mt Ngaruahoe.
Walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
When it comes to summer activities in Mt Ruapehu, you can’t miss walking the Tongariro Alpine crossing.
Between November and April, visitors get the opportunity to walk the crossing unguided or guided. You will experience the unique emerald and blue lakes while feasting your eyes on the surreal scenery.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as one of the top ten single-day trips in the world. This 19.4 km journey is an experience you won’t forget.
Summer walks and hikes on Mt Ruapehu
Summer is a great time for walks and hikes! There are so many exciting trails to experience that take you to Mt Ruapehu’s most magnificent landscapes and most stunning views. Walks range from short walks through the forest on the slopes of the volcano to multi-day adventures around the entire mountain.
What ever your feet can handle, Mt Ruapehu has you covered.
Here are just a few to choose from:
- Mangawhero Falls (10 Minutes One Way)
- Meads Wall (10 Minutes One Way)
- Mangawhero Forest Walk (1-hour Loop)
- Rimu Walk (15 Minutes Return)
Choose the best walk or hike that suits you, with more inspiration here.
Nature watching
Whatever summer activities you decide to do, the one that won’t cost you a cent is soaking up the beautiful nature surrounding Mt Ruapehu and Tongariro National Park.
You only have to step outside the Park Hotel to experience it. Or you can head down to the Tongariro river and perch yourself on the riverbank and listen to the native birds and crystal water flowing.
Cool down with fun water activities
Mt Ruapehu not only hosts wonderous dry landscapes and views but rivers, waterfalls, streams, and lakes, which make Mt Ruapehu in summer a perfect family holiday escape.
Hop on a canoe or take a thrilling white-water raft ride through the Tongariro river with an expert guide.
Cruise the lakes on a stand-up paddleboard or try fly fishing in one of Ruapehu’s secret spots.
Mt Ruapehu has enough water activities to keep you and your family entertained all summer long!
The best Mt Ruapehu accommodation
A summer holiday at Mt Ruapehu is truly a unique experience and we know you will love it as much as we do.
Now that you have some compelling reasons to visit Mt Ruapehu this summer, you’re probably wondering where to stay.
If you need accommodation, that is:
- Cosy and affordable accommodation
- A doorstep away from Mt Ruapehu and Tongariro National Park
- A mouth-watering dining experience
- High-quality services and facilities
- Access to hot tubs
The Park Hotel is a top choice among our recurring customers, and we welcome you to experience it for yourself.
Call us today and book your stay with us for an unforgettable summer experience!