National Forest Parks
forests tussocklands and river valleys
Taupo and the surrounding region has some of the most awe-inspiring exciting natural landscapes in the world. The Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand and a world heritage site. It is held in the highest regard by Ngati Tuwharetoa and it's numerous hapu (sub-tribe) Tongariro is home to many waahi tapu (sacred sites) Steming from their rich history the stories associated within our past continue to be vocalised throughout the nation and the world via various media. One such story speaks of a battle for the love of a maiden.
In the days when the world was young, when mountains walked and talked, there were four warrior mountains who stood in the heart of Te Ika-a-Maui.
Putauaki, Tauhara, Taranaki and Tongariro were always fighting but they had one thing in common – they all loved the gentle maiden mountain Pihanga. She was so beautiful all the warrior mountains declared their love for her, but she couldn’t choose between them so decided she would marry whoever was the mightiest of the mountains.
The four mountains locked in battle for many days and many nights. One by one, they eventually surrendered until Tongariro was victorious.
The defeated mountains departed. Taranaki travelled westward – his weight carving a deep channel in the earth which filled with his tears. That river is now called the Whanganui River.
Putauaki and Tauhara journeyed eastward. Putauaki went north and settled at the northern end of the Kaingaroa Plains while Tauhara now stands at the north-eastern shore of Lake Taupo and looks broodingly across at Pihanga.
Pihanga became the wife of Tongariro and to this day they are together in the land of Ngati Turwharetoa.
(The complete story and artistic interpretation of Te Maari Gardiner is etched into the window of the Turangi Library and can be viewed daily)
Respect and care should be taken while visiting the Tongariro National Park. Take only photos, leave only footprints.is a good rule of thumb
The Kaimanawa Forest Park lies to the south of Taupo and is reknown for its beautiful river valleys, wide tussock terrain, grassy flats and gorges. Explore the Pureroa Forest Park, one of the finest examples of rainforest, rich in bird life and ash buried ancient forests. The Whirinaki rainforest is a fascinating and educational eco-cultural experience. The natural wilderness of these parks can be seen by tramping, climbing, bike and scenic flights or take the oportunity to trout fish, hunt, horse trek and study the flora and fauna. This is a wonderous natural enviroment.
All prices subject to change. Seasonal rates may apply.
