Things to do in National Park, North Island

Experience the landscape of Tongariro, peppered with different coloured and shaped craters that have been active at different periods, scoured volcanic rocks, mountain springs and brightly coloured emerald lakes on a 1-day trek.  In Summer, discover a majestic landscape of recent resultant volcanic activity. See how the vast array of colours and textures created from Sulphur, Aluminium, Silica, and many other mineral deposits released from within the Earth’s Crust. Follow your guide along alternative paths so you can escape the crowds whilst still experience the popular sights.  In Winter, enjoy the opportunity to walk through the magnificent snow-covered landscape without the summer crowds. No outdoor experience is necessary, all training and tuition are given on the day. Crampons and ice-axes are supplied by Adrift Tongariro for a fantastic alpine experience. Please note that reaching the Ketatahi end is not guaranteed. Safety regarding, weather, avalanche, ice and hypothermia are taken into consideration when securing the exact route for the day. Individual and group bookings are accepted. If you are travelling alone please book as the operator generally always meet minimum numbers, especially on good weather days.

Enjoy your Tongariro Alpine Crossing experience with the convenience of a round trip shuttle with a morning pick up and an afternoon return service. Experience the best 1-day hike in New Zealand and considered by many experienced hikers to be one of the best 1-day hikes in the world. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Green and Emerald lakes and the grandeur of Mountains of the Tongariro National Park. During your 6-8 hour hike you will be challenged by some of the climbs as you experience the unique landscape of Tongariro National Park with its past volcanic activity creating an amazing array of different shaped and colored craters and vents

Take the worry out of driving to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with a convenient roundtrip shuttle with morning pick and afternoon return shuttle transfers. Enjoy one of the best one-day hikes in the world, which has received the honour of being rated the #1 one-day hike in New Zealand. Embark on a 6-8 hour hike that offers some challenging climbs and breathtaking views of the Tongariro National Park. If you want to hike at a slower pace, take our one way morning shuttle from Ketetahi end of the track which allows for ample time to get through the trail comfortably. Minimum number of passengers is required to operate this service please contact the day before to confirm. Return times at 3pm or by arrangement on the day

Our shuttle will pick you up from the Park N Ride car park in National Park Village/Waimarino and take you directly to the Whakapapa Skifield on Mt Ruapehu to enjoy a day of snow play or sightseeing. Take the hassle out of your day by being taken to the top car park avoiding the need to look for a parking space and be safe in the knowledge that your vehicle will not need snow chains. A very good option for those not confident to drive on an unfamiliar mountain access road during winter. The shuttle will take you up at the time you select and return you back to National Park Village later in the day. Return time is 3pm but may be changed on the day on request or by the driver dictated by weather conditions and availability.

Day 1: Darwin – Arnhem Land Pickup from your Darwin accommodation at 6.30 am and hit the road. We travel east along the Arnhem Highway to the Corroboree Billabong on the Mary River for a cruise to learn about the Top End’s wetlands and get a good chance to see various birdlife and saltwater crocodiles. After lunch, we continue to the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land, Cahill’s Crossing, where the 4WD is utilised to traverse the croc-infested East Alligator River. Welcome to Arnhem Land. Learn about the cultural importance of the West Arnhem Land region as your Bininj guide takes you to restricted areas that First Nation ancestors have been visiting for thousands of years. Spend the afternoon learning about the region and its people’s history from your guide before heading back to Kakadu for an overnight stay. Day 2: Kakadu National Park After breakfast, head to Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu’s most iconic natural attraction. Take a challenging walk through the monsoon forest and over boulders, then recharge with a cooling dip in the clear waters beneath the falls. After lunch head to Anbangbang, another incredible site that features ancient art on what was originally Warramal Land. This afternoon, you can take a scenic flight over Kakadu (at additional cost) or visit the Bowali Cultural Centre. Day 3: Kakadu National Park After breakfast, head to Gunlom Falls or Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) for a swim in another pristine waterhole. Maguk flows down the steep walls of rugged gorges into a beautiful natural plunge pool, while the steep climb to the Gunlom Falls plunge pool is rewarded with sweeping views of Kakadu along with the larger pool, which is found under the welcome shade of gum trees. Neither option will disappoint you. After a relaxing morning, it’s time to hit the road. Stop in the old gold-mining town of Pine Creek for lunch before continuing for another three hours to your private campsite on the doorstep of Nitmiluk National Park. Day 4: Nitmiluk National Park – Litchfield National Park Spend the day exploring the deep Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and Nitmiluk National Park, a wonderland of colours, ancient rock art, waterfalls and wildlife. While here, you can explore the region on foot or take a cruise (at additional cost) to get a different perspective of the Gorge. In the afternoon, travel to Edith Falls, a hidden oasis of clear, cool waters surrounded by bronze boulders. After a quick swim in the huge rock pools, continue to tonight’s camp at the edge of Litchfield National Park, where dinner awaits. Day 5: Litchfield National Park – Darwin After breakfast, head to Litchfield National Park. Litchfield is awash with tropical rainforest, gorgeous waterfalls and crystal-clear waterholes. Visit Florence Falls, Wangi Falls or Bluey Rockhole, then tuck into a picnic lunch. Enjoy a stroll through the rainforests and a refreshing dip in one of the park’s gorgeous swimming holes. In the afternoon, make the two-hour drive back to Darwin.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Auckland to the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand's most celebrated one-day hikes. Experience the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the flexibility to customize your adventure to suit your fitness level and interests. Start your day with a convenient pick-up from your Auckland accommodation. Enjoy a comfortable ride through the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island. Accommodation NOT INCLUDED in the tour, but we’re happy to assist in finding the perfect spot for you near National Park. Depart for Tongariro National Park around 5 AM or 6 AM to begin your trek. Traverse otherworldly volcanic terrain in the Mangatepopo Valley. Challenge yourself on the steep ascent of the Devil’s Staircase, rewarded by spectacular views. Reach the highest points with panoramic vistas at South Crater and Red Crater. Marvel at the vivid hues of the Emerald and Blue Lakes. Complete the trek as you pass Ketetahi Hut and native forest. Relax and unwind during your return journey to Auckland, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation.