Kia Ora. Welcome to Ruapehu.
Located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Ruapehu is a beautiful backdrop for adventure, family and wellness - visit our greater outdoors for a truly immersive authentic experience.
Things to See & Do in Ruapehu
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Mountain Biking Shuttles
Planning your next mountain biking trip? The Ruapehu region offers a variety of cycling trails, each presenting its own unique challenges and scenic wonders.
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Eat, Drink & Shop
Ruapehu is home to first class eating establishments and unique boutique shopping experiences.
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttles
Relax as you take a shuttle to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing!
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Discover a Forgotten World
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Northern Explorer Packages
Book a journey like no other by travelling in either direction from Auckland to Wellington or Wellington to Auckland.
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Where is Ruapehu?
Centrally located in New Zealand’s North Island, Ruapehu is easily accessible through multiple directions by road or by air. This makes it your perfect holiday destination on it’s own or combined with another trip plan.
- 3 hr 30 mins drive from Auckland to Taumarunui
- 1hr 10mins from Taupō Airport to National Park Village
- 3hr drive from Wellington to Waiouru
Why Visit Our Greater Outdoors?
AUTHENTIC New Zealand
A region that offers a multitude of experiences that epitomise New Zealand’s pure outdoors
INTERACTIVE MAP
THE BEST VALUE
Find your happy place. From camping and backpackers, to luxury lodges and quirky homes, Ruapehu has just about every style of bed (and breakfast) you can imagine.
DEALS & PACKAGES
FAMILY FUN
Cuddle a carrot, pat an alpaca, inspect a T-Rex ...you'll be amazed at what your family can get up to in Ruapehu!
ALL FAMILY ACTIVITIES
The connection
World renowned Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park set the backdrop for truly unique New Zealand experiences.
EXPLORE RUAPEHU
01 Jan - 30 Dec 24
Mangawhero River Walk parkrun, Ohakune
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it's up to you!
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06 Nov - 30 Dec 24
Raetihi Arts Exhibition
Our new spring exhibition features six artists from the Taumarunui area: Kathryn Davis, Deb Brock, Martin Fuller, Philip Hagan, Paul Malpass and Ida Te Waiata Hamm.
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09 Nov - 10 Nov 24
Taumarunui Garden Ramble
Mark your calendars for 9 and 10 November, when all four Forgotten World Gardens will be open as part of the Taumarunui Primary School Garden Ramble.
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21 Nov 24
Ruapehu Māori Culture Festival
Experience the rich heritage of Māori culture at the Ruapehu Māori Culture Festival on 21 November, with performances, food, and community celebration.
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23 Nov 24
Waimarino Garden Ramble
This Garden Ramble is a fundraiser event for Ohakune Primary School and the Waimarino St John Area Committee.
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15 Feb 25
Waimarino A&P Show
Located just off the beaten path, Waimarino A & P Show is worth the adventure to get there. Just bring yourself—we’ll handle the rest.
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08 Mar 25
Blazing Hills Trail Run, Walk and Obstacle Course
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Waimarino, you'll face thrilling challenges, scenic hill climbs, and a community of athletes cheering you on. From first-timers to seasoned pros, Blazing Hills promises an unforgettable day of pushing your limits and celebrating the great outdoors. Are you ready to blaze the trail?
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12 Apr 25
Raetihi GutBuster
Raetihi Gutbuster has a range of run, road bike, mountain bike and E-bike options to challenge you in our unique and welcoming landscape.
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Wāhine Toa
From majestic mountains to sacred rivers, the living landscape of Ruapehu is home to many wāhine toa proud to call this place home - where the natural environment is a life force to respect, care for and preserve for generations to come. Meet some of Ruapehu’s local champions and tourism operators inviting visitors to connect deeper and discover authentic adventures here like no other.
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