The Serene Beauty of Tongariro River
Discover the enchanting Tongariro River in Waikato, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, blending adventure with serene beauty.
Nestled in the heart of the Waikato region, the Tongariro River is a mesmerizing destination for tourists seeking stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes, this river offers a perfect backdrop for a variety of activities, from fishing and kayaking to leisurely walks along its banks. Surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic geological formations, the river is a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
A brief summary to Tongariro River
- Waikato, NZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for serene views and fewer crowds.
- Bring your fishing gear if you want to experience the excellent trout fishing.
- Don't forget your camera; the scenery is breathtaking, especially at sunset.
- Check local weather conditions before kayaking or rafting for safety.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river while soaking in the natural beauty.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from National Park Village, which is the main hub for accessing Tongariro National Park. Head south on SH47 (State Highway 47) for approximately 14 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to the Tongariro River. You will find a parking area near the riverbank where you can safely park your vehicle. Be sure to check for any parking fees or restrictions.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take the InterCity bus service to National Park Village. From the village, you will need to arrange a local shuttle service that can take you to the Tongariro River. Several local tour operators offer shuttle services for a fee, typically around NZD 20-30 per person. Make sure to book this in advance to secure your spot.
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Walking
Once you reach the river area, if you are feeling adventurous, consider walking along the riverbanks. There are several well-marked walking tracks that provide stunning views of the river and its surroundings. Be sure to carry enough water and snacks, and wear appropriate footwear for hiking.
Discover more about Tongariro River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tongariro River
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting Tongariro River in Waikato, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, blending adventure with serene beauty.
Tongariro Lodge
2.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Tongariro Lodge, a premier destination for adventure and relaxation in New Zealand.
Major Jones Bridge
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Major Jones Bridge over the Tongariro River, where nature, adventure, and stunning views converge in New Zealand's Waikato region.
Tongariro River Trail
4.4 km
Discover the Tongariro River Trail, a stunning hiking destination in New Zealand, offering breathtaking views and a serene natural experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tongariro Adventures
7.8 km
Discover the serene charm of Tongariro Adventures, your ideal Bed & Breakfast in Kuratau, gateway to New Zealand's breathtaking natural wonders.
Tongariro Holiday Park
18.9 km
Discover the beauty of Tongariro National Park at Tongariro Holiday Park, the ultimate retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in New Zealand.
Oturere Hut
23.6 km
Discover the beauty of Tongariro National Park at Oturere Hut, your perfect retreat for hiking and nature exploration in New Zealand.
Mangatepopo Hut
26.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Mangatepopo Hut in Tongariro National Park, a perfect base for hiking and exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Mangatepopo Car Park
27.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing from the Mangatepopo Car Park, a must-visit for all nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Waihohonu Hut
29.2 km
Explore the natural beauty of Tongariro National Park at Waihohonu Hut – a perfect mountain cabin retreat for every adventurer.
West
32.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at West Mountain Peak in the stunning Manawatū-Whanganui region of New Zealand.
Whakapapanui walk at Tongariro National Park
33.6 km
Explore the scenic Whakapapanui walk in Tongariro National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage await every adventurer.
Kaimanawa Wall
34.0 km
Explore Kaimanawa Wall, a stunning natural wonder in Waikato, New Zealand, known for its breathtaking rock formations and adventure opportunities.
Acacia Cliffs Lodge
34.3 km
Discover the beauty of Lake Taupō at Acacia Cliffs Lodge, a luxurious boutique retreat surrounded by nature's wonders.
Chateau Tongariro Hotel
34.4 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of Chateau Tongariro Hotel at the foot of Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand's iconic retreat.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rafting New Zealand
3.9 km
Experience the ultimate adventure at Rafting New Zealand - where thrill meets breathtaking natural beauty amidst Tūrangi's stunning landscapes.
River Rats Raft & Kayak - Tongariro Base
3.9 km
Experience the thrill of rafting in New Zealand's stunning Tongariro River with River Rats Raft & Kayak, your adventure awaits!
Tongariro National Trout Centre
6.6 km
Discover the enchanting Tongariro National Trout Centre, where education meets nature in the scenic landscapes of New Zealand's outdoor paradise.
Lake Rotopounamu track
8.1 km
Explore the enchanting Lake Rotopounamu Track in Tongariro National Park, a hiker's paradise filled with stunning scenery and rich biodiversity.
Tongariro Crossing Car Park
15.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Tongariro Alpine Crossing from the Tongariro Crossing Car Park - your gateway to New Zealand's stunning volcanic landscapes.
Finish Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trail - Ketetahi side
16.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural significance of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, an unforgettable hiking experience in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Ketetahi Falls
17.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ketetahi Falls, a stunning natural attraction along the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand's Waikato region.
Te Porere Redoubt
20.3 km
Explore the historical significance of Te Porere Redoubt, a key military site from the New Zealand Wars, amidst the scenic beauty of Tongariro.
Lake Taupo
21.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, where adventure meets tranquility in stunning natural surroundings.
Blue Lake
21.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Blue Lake, a tranquil oasis in New Zealand's Tongariro Alpine region, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Emerald Lakes
22.6 km
Explore the stunning Emerald Lakes in New Zealand, a hiking paradise featuring breathtaking turquoise lakes and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Tongariro Crossing Emerald Lake Lookout
22.7 km
Experience the stunning views of emerald lakes and majestic mountains at the Tongariro Crossing Emerald Lake Lookout in New Zealand's breathtaking national park.
Mt Tongariro
23.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mt Tongariro, New Zealand's iconic volcano, where adventure meets rich cultural heritage in a stunning alpine setting.
Soda Springs
24.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Soda Springs and experience the adventure of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a true gem in New Zealand's volcanic heartland.
Okupata Caves
25.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Okupata Caves in New Zealand's Manawatū-Whanganui, a hidden gem of natural beauty and geological wonders.
Essential places to dine
Hare & Copper Eatery | Tūrangi Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Hare & Copper Eatery in Tūrangi - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking local flavors.
Tongariro Lodge Restaurant
2.5 km
Discover exquisite dining at Tongariro Lodge Restaurant in Tūrangi - where local flavors meet breathtaking views amidst nature's beauty.
Time For Food Cafe
3.2 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's flavors at Time For Food Cafe in Tūrangi – where delicious meets delightful!
Valentino's Italian Restaurant
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Valentino's Restaurant in Tūrangi - where every dish tells a story of Italy.
Hydro Eatery
3.3 km
Discover Hydro Eatery in Tūrangi: A delightful cafe specializing in breakfast and lunch with local flavors and warm hospitality.
Burger King Tūrangi
3.4 km
Experience the flavors of fast food at Burger King Tūrangi – your go-to spot for delicious burgers and quick bites in New Zealand.
Riverside Bar & Restaurant
3.6 km
Discover Riverside Bar & Restaurant: Tūrangi's ultimate dining experience with scenic views and delectable cuisine.
Lakeland House Restaurant
4.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Lakeland House Restaurant in Tūrangi – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Terrace Restaurant & Bar
34.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at The Terrace Restaurant & Bar with stunning views in Manawatū-Whanganui.
Mavericks Gastro Pub
34.7 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Mavericks Gastro Pub - where gourmet meets lakeside relaxation.
Ploughmans Restaurant
36.8 km
Experience authentic English cuisine in the heart of Taupō at Ploughmans Restaurant - where tradition meets taste.
Lucky Lizard Tavern Bar & Grill
37.6 km
Experience delicious grilled cuisine and refreshing drinks at Lucky Lizard Tavern Bar & Grill in beautiful Taupō.
The Lakeland Bar & Brasserie
37.7 km
Discover delicious cuisine and stunning lake views at The Lakeland Bar & Brasserie in Taupō – an unforgettable dining experience awaits.
Beach Brasserie
38.1 km
Discover exquisite Western cuisine with breathtaking lake views at Beach Brasserie in Taupō.
Edgewater Restaurant
38.1 km
Discover exquisite local flavors at Edgewater Restaurant with breathtaking views over Lake Taupō in New Zealand.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Oranga kawakawa
2.5 km
Discover Oranga Kawakawa, Tūrangi's premier health and beauty shop offering organic products for wellness in a serene New Zealand setting.
Sharon Simeon
2.8 km
Explore the vibrant shopping experience at Sharon Simeon in Tūrangi, where local goods and delightful eateries await your discovery.
Dspize Clothing Limted
3.0 km
Explore Dspize Clothing Limited in Tūrangi for unique New Zealand fashion, blending local style with quality apparel to enhance your travel experience.
Central Plateau Cycles Turangi
3.1 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand's Central Plateau with quality bike rentals at Central Plateau Cycles in Tūrangi.
Naylors since 1966
3.1 km
Discover unique gifts and authentic New Zealand souvenirs at Naylors, a cherished gift shop in Tūrangi since 1966.
Lorraine's New Age Gifts
3.2 km
Explore Lorraine's New Age Gifts in Tūrangi for unique treasures, local artisan crafts, and thoughtful souvenirs that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
The Tunneller
3.3 km
Explore The Tunneller in Tūrangi, New Zealand - A captivating statuary that blends art, culture, and local history in a picturesque setting.
Coin Save/ variety store
3.3 km
Explore Coin Save in Tūrangi for a diverse selection of unique souvenirs and everyday essentials, capturing the essence of local life.
Liquor Centre
3.3 km
Explore a diverse selection of local and international beverages at Turangi's Liquor Centre, your ultimate supermarket destination.
Turangi Shopping Centre and Mall
3.4 km
Discover the charm of local shopping at Turangi Shopping Centre, where unique Kiwi finds and cultural treasures await every visitor.
Hospice Shop Turangi
3.4 km
Explore unique second-hand finds and support local hospice services at Hospice Shop Turangi, your treasure hunt in Tūrangi, New Zealand.
New World Turangi
3.4 km
Discover fresh local produce and unique NZ specialties at New World Turangi, your go-to supermarket in Tūrangi.
Kowhai & Lilly
3.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local craftsmanship at Kowhai & Lilly, Tūrangi's charming gift shop offering a piece of New Zealand's culture.
Essential Oils
11.2 km
Discover tranquility and wellness at Essential Oils in Kuratau, where nature's aromas transform your well-being.
Edge to Edge
34.1 km
Discover Edge to Edge, your ultimate ski rental service in New Zealand, offering top-quality gear and expert advice for an unforgettable snow adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rust Licensed Gourmet Burger Bar
3.2 km
Discover the best gourmet burgers in Tūrangi at Rust Licensed Gourmet Burger Bar, where local flavors meet culinary creativity in a vibrant setting.
Turangi Tavern
3.3 km
Discover the charm of Turangi Tavern, where great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere await in the heart of Tūrangi, New Zealand.
Turangi Bridge Motel, Bar & Restaurant
3.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and local flavors at Turangi Bridge Motel, Bar & Restaurant in Tūrangi, New Zealand.
Skotel Restaurant and Bar
34.1 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Skotel Restaurant and Bar, a scenic dining destination in Manawatū-Whanganui.
Tussock Bar & Restaurant
34.4 km
Discover the warmth of New Zealand's hospitality at Tussock Bar & Restaurant, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Lorenz's Bar And Cafe
36.8 km
Discover Lorenz's Bar and Cafe, a cozy retreat in Tongariro National Park, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.
Lakefront Bar
38.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of scenic beauty and refreshing drinks at Lakefront Bar in Taupō, New Zealand.
Pub n Grub Taupo
38.6 km
Discover the best of Taupo's culinary scene at Pub n Grub, where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere perfect for every traveler.
The Deck
38.6 km
Discover The Deck in Taupō: Perfect drinks, stunning lake views, and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Mulligans Public House
38.6 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mulligans Public House in Taupō - a lively pub for delicious food, drinks, and sports.
Cornerstone Taproom Taupo
38.7 km
Cornerstone Taproom in Taupo: A Hub of Local Craft Beer and Vibrant Social Culture.
Dbar
38.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and scenic views at Dbar in Taupō, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
The Dance Club
38.7 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Taupō at The Dance Club, where music, dancing, and memorable experiences come alive!
Pitch Sports Bar
38.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pitch Sports Bar in Taupō, where great food and drinks meet live sports in a welcoming environment.
Rosemary’s
38.7 km
Discover Rosemary’s in Taupō – a lively bar offering a delightful selection of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding after your adventures.