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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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
Events in Ruapehu
05 Oct - 30 Dec 26
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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08 Nov
Pirate Ship Unveiling at Ohakune Carrotland Adventure Park
Ahoy, adventurers! Join us on November 8th for the grand unveiling of the newest attraction at Ohakune CarrotLand Adventure Park—a spectacular Pirate Ship built for fun, imagination, and swashbuckling family adventures. Entry is free, and excitement is guaranteed!
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28 Nov 25
Royal Raetihi Screening
BB and the Bullets live at the theatre – 28 Nov With local acts 49 South & Simzy.
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06 Dec 25
Bradley's Garden Christmas Party
Enjoy an afternoon of live music, delicious food, and festive drinks in a beautiful garden setting. With a gin bar, Christmas cocktails, and food trucks, it's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with friends.
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13 Dec 25
Raetihi Christmas Parade
The annual Raetihi Christmas Parade will be held again in 2025!
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17 Jan 26
The Kid Tongariro
A special adventure run just for young trailblazers aged 5 to 16, The Kid Tongariro is part of The Goat Tongariro Adventure Run and designed to inspire a love for the outdoors.
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14 Mar 26
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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27 Mar - 29 Mar 26
Ring of Fire Volcanic Ultra & Relay
After a break since 2023, the revered Ring of Fire alpine ultramarathon around Mount Ruapehu is making its much anticipated return on Friday 27th March – Sunday 29th March 2026 – this time under the care of the Ohakune Events Charitable Trust, who now also deliver iconic The Goat and Tussock Traverse events AND with new courses!
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28 Mar 26
Tussock Traverse
Held in the wildly stunning Tongaririo National Park and hosting trail runners in the following popular distances: * 32km * 21km * 12km * 6km *
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18 Apr 26
Ride Holidays Raetihi GutBuster
Ride Holidays Raetihi Gutbuster has a range of run, road bike, mountain bike and E-bike options to challenge you in our unique and welcoming landscape.
find out moreMt Ruapehu Winter Inspiration
Oh Ohakune! How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
When the stars align and you find yourself in Ohakune, the southern gateway to Tongariro National Park and the only UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site in New Zealand - the possibilities to frolic, to be still, to be enchanted, and to be rejuvenated in this natural wonderland are endless. From winter ski to summer alpine adventures, Ohakune is a special place to discover year-round for travellers looking to uncover the beauty and hidden gems of this charming mountain town.
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