In 1894, Tongariro National Park was established - the first for Aotearoa (New Zealand), and fourth in the world. Legal ownership of the sacred mountain peaks increased significantly from the original 2,640 hectare tuku into a 25,000 hectare land block vested solely in the Crown. Tongariro is New Zealand's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage area. The park’s stunning natural landscapes are imbued with deep cultural importance. Tongariro National Park is located in the central North Island. It is easily accessed by road, and is only a 4-5 hour drive from either Auckland or Wellington. The nearest towns are Taumarunui, National Park Village, Ohakune and Tūrangi. The small village of Whakapapa is located within the park. Road access Driving State highways surround the park and lead to key access points. Whakapapa. Find out about and view the Tongariro National Park Management Plan 2006 - updated 2011 and 2018. Description Tongariro 2025 fires In late 2025, two fires burned significant areas of Tongariro National Park, affecting the area around the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Visitors can expect to see blackened landscapes and burnt vegetation, but also regrowth as plants begin to recover. Winning a whio adventure in Tongariro National Park was “an amazing experience” according to Palmerston North student Sarah Ridsdale… I arrived at Whakapapa Village and met Bubs, the local whio ranger. He showed us on a map where we would be flying in a helicopter (yes helicopter!) the next day, and some information about the incredible whio/blue duck. Call in to the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre, situated in Whakapapa Village, and meet Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) rangers who have first-hand, in-depth local knowledge about conservation places and activities. The Rangipo Desert is dryer than most areas in Tongariro National Park as it is sited in the rain shadow to the east of Mt Ruapehu. The track passes Ohinepango Springs then traverses the eastern side of Ruapehu, past the Tukino Mountain Road, the Whangaehu River, eventually arriving at Rangipo Hut. Tongariro is New Zealand's oldest national park and a dual World Heritage area. This status recognises the park's important Māori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features. In 1894, Tongariro National Park was established - the first for Aotearoa (New Zealand), and fourth in the world. Legal ownership of the sacred mountain peaks increased significantly from the original 2,640 hectare tuku into a 25,000 hectare land block vested solely in the Crown.