Discover the Tranquility of Blue Lake
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Blue Lake, a tranquil oasis in New Zealand's Tongariro Alpine region, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Nestled within the stunning Tongariro Alpine region, Blue Lake is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its vibrant blue waters surrounded by lush landscapes, it offers a perfect escape for tourists looking to explore New Zealand's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Blue Lake
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Waikato, 3989, NZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the lake with fewer crowds and capture stunning sunrise photos.
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be uneven and challenging in certain areas.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, taking advantage of the beautiful scenery.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the alpine environment.
- Respect the natural environment by sticking to marked trails to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Blue Lake, start from the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre located on State Highway 47. Head south on State Highway 47 for approximately 14 kilometers until you reach the roundabout. Take the first exit onto State Highway 1 going south. Continue for about 8 kilometers until you see the signs for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Turn onto the access road to the crossing. There is a parking area here where you can leave your car. From the parking area, follow the marked trail towards the Blue Lake. The hike will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, and it is essential to carry enough water and snacks. Ensure you have appropriate hiking gear, as the terrain can be uneven.
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Public Transportation
To reach Blue Lake using public transport, start by taking a bus from Taupo to National Park Village. The bus service is operated by InterCity and requires booking in advance, with prices ranging typically from NZD 30 to NZD 50 depending on the season. Upon arrival at National Park Village, you can either take a taxi to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing parking area or join a guided tour that includes transport to the trailhead. The guided tours usually cost around NZD 150 to NZD 200 and may include meals and additional services. Once at the parking area, hike towards Blue Lake, which will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Guided Tour
An excellent option for those unfamiliar with the area is to book a guided tour from local operators who provide transport from major towns like Taupo or Rotorua. These tours typically include round-trip transportation and a guided hike to Blue Lake. Prices can vary between NZD 150 to NZD 250 per person, depending on the inclusions such as meals and equipment. The tour will take care of all logistics, allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery without the hassle of navigation.
Discover more about Blue Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Oturere Hut
4.5 km
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Mangatepopo Hut
6.0 km
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Mangatepopo Car Park
7.2 km
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Waihohonu Hut
9.6 km
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Tongariro Holiday Park
10.0 km
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Whakapapanui walk at Tongariro National Park
13.2 km
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Chateau Tongariro Hotel
13.4 km
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Silica Rapids
15.5 km
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Discovery Lodge Tongariro
16.3 km
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Tukino Alpine Sports Club
17.6 km
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Whakapapaiti Hut
17.6 km
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Mangahuia Campsite
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Tongariro River Trail
19.1 km
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Major Jones Bridge
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Tongariro River
21.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Emerald Lakes
1.2 km
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Tongariro Crossing Emerald Lake Lookout
1.3 km
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Mt Tongariro
2.2 km
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Soda Springs
3.3 km
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Mt Ngauruhoe
4.4 km
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Ketetahi Falls
5.3 km
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Finish Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trail - Ketetahi side
5.6 km
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Tongariro Crossing Car Park
6.6 km
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing
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Tongariro National Park
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Lower Tama Lake
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Te Porere Redoubt
10.8 km
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Taranaki Falls
11.6 km
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Lake Rotopounamu track
13.4 km
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Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
13.5 km
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Essential places to dine
The Terrace Restaurant & Bar
13.1 km
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Riverside Bar & Restaurant
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Hydro Eatery
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Burger King Tūrangi
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Valentino's Italian Restaurant
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Time For Food Cafe
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Lakeland House Restaurant
20.6 km
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Tongariro Lodge Restaurant
21.5 km
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Hare & Copper Eatery | Tūrangi Restaurant
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The Park Hotel Ruapehu
23.0 km
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Spiral Restaurant @ The Park
23.0 km
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Schnapps Bar
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CamoKai Takeaways
23.1 km
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Powderkeg Restaurant and Bar
37.5 km
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Tiger Palace
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Edge to Edge
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MA & MELS
13.5 km
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Kowhai & Lilly
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Hospice Shop Turangi
19.6 km
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Dspize Clothing Limted
19.6 km
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New World Turangi
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Coin Save/ variety store
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The Tunneller
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Liquor Centre
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Oranga kawakawa
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Lorraine's New Age Gifts
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Naylors since 1966
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Central Plateau Cycles Turangi
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Sharon Simeon
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Turangi Shopping Centre and Mall
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Lorenz's Bar And Cafe
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Turangi Tavern
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Rust Licensed Gourmet Burger Bar
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Turangi Bridge Motel, Bar & Restaurant
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The Garden Bar
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Powderhorn Chateau
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Kings Ohakune - Bar, Restaurant & Events
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Lakefront Bar
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Pub n Grub Taupo
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The Deck
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Mulligans Public House
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Cornerstone Taproom Taupo
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Dbar
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