Tongariro National Park is characterised by three volcanic peaks, Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu and Tongariro, all of which are part of the 'Pacific Ring of Fire'. But there’s more to Tongariro National Park that meets the eye. Be it factual or mythical, they make up an important part of our culture and history. DOC has made significant investments into maintaining visitor and heritage assets in Tongariro National Park to keep people safe, protect the environment and ensure high-quality visitor experiences. As a region with deep cultural, spiritual and historical significance, there is much more to Tongariro than its incredible landscape. You can reach Tongariro National Park by train, by air and by road. Whatever time of year in whatever weather conditions, the scenery at Tongariro National Park is breathtaking. Tongariro’s mountains are culturally and spiritually significant to the Ngati Tuwharetoa people as they symbolise the link between the Iwi and the environment. We could never get sick of seeing the mountains through the window every morning. The only 3 star hotel in the region with stunning views of the 3 volcanoes — we provide a friendly, relaxed environment for you to stay after your day’s activities. To this day, Ngati Tuwharetoa has a deep connection with the land and a strong desire to protect it. The Tongariro region is a dream for many adventurers. When diving into the history of the area, you get to know how true this is. Most of the waterfalls and mountainous terrain in the park are results of volcanic activity. It’s been deemed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, due to its significance to the Maori culture. But as the first National Park in the world to be gifted by its indigenous people, Tongariro National Park reflects the coming together of two cultures to preserve a sacred region. Within Tongariro National Park is an active volcanic zone made up of the three volcanoes, Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngaruahoe and Mount Tongariro. The Lord of the Rings has attracted thousands of fans to Tongariro as they flock to see where scenes from the trilogy were filmed. There are so many different aspects regarding the history of Tongariro National Park. However, when he reached Rangipo, a desert area east of mountains Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu, he met Hapekituarangi who was attempting to do the same thing. The heat traveled underground and reached Tongariro’s summit, creating a volcanic crater and spouting warmth to revive Ngatoroirangi. DOC has made significant investments into maintaining visitor and heritage assets in Tongariro National Park to keep people safe, protect the environment and ensure high-quality visitor experiences. It reflects how unique the region’s cultural qualities are. It was also the first to be listed under a Dual World Heritage classification for both its cultural associations and stunning volcanic landscape. On the Corner of SH4 and Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, NZ Freephone 0800 800 491International +64 7 892 2748, Cnr State Highway 4 & Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, Copyright © 2017 - The Park Hotel, Ruapehu, Why Tongariro National Park is a significant New Zealand landmark, Mt Ruapehu 2020 ski season guide to what’s on now, Whakapapa Skyline Walk - one of the best summer short walks, 5 amazing activities for family fun in Tongariro National Park. Advertisement The mountains at the heart of the park have cultural and spiritual significance to Ngāti Tuwharetoa and symbolise the spiritual links between this community and their environment. New Zealand’s oldest national park, Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage area. We can go back as far as 30 generations when the Ngatoroirangi of the Ngati Tuwharetoa tribe first came to the area. The history of Tongariro has many different perspectives, both in legend and historical record. They are recognisable instantly and incredibly stunning. It has active volcanoes, New Zealand‘s largest ski fields and famous Lord of the Rings locations. Eastern Polynesians, traveling thousands of miles in large double-hulled canoes, began settling the North Island of New Zealand by about 1300. These stories have huge significance in New Zealand culture and are part of who we are and where we came from. Understanding the history of Tongariro National Park is a huge part of why the region is so close to our hearts. So we tried to stay flexible enough to adjust our travel route in order to avoid spells of bad weather. The Tongariro National Park was officially established in 1894, the first National Park in New Zealand and the fourth in the world. Mount Ngaruahoe is a particular hot spot for LOTR fans as the perfectly formed volcano was a prime location for depicting the wrath of Mordor and Mount Doom. Tongariro National Park was the fourth national park established in the world. From the history to the landscape, Tongariro National Park is more than just a location, it’s an experience. Tongariro National Park Village accommodation. Waitangi Tribunal releases its report on Tongariro National Park claims. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s great walks and attracts thousands to the area every year. Tongariro National Park stretches around the famous volcanoes, covering a total area of 782m2. Task: 1 Locational Context Tongariro National Park is located in the North Island of New Zealand, south of Lake Taupo. And with the winter season quickly approaching, the snow-capped peaks will enhance the area even more. The two soon became rivals, so Ngatoroirangi decided to climb Mount Tongariro and lay claim to all he could see from the summit. A 7 to 14 days stay in Tongariro National Park is just fine to explore the city. Tongariro is traditionally known as the belly of the great fish of Maui which, in time, became known as New Zealand’s North Island. Tongariro National Park has many tourist attractions and travel activities, with something to suit all ages, tastes and budgets. Many people who come to Tongariro National Park aren’t aware that it holds a dual World Heritage status. Basic Facts About Tongariro National Park The Tongariro National Park is the first national park in New Zealand (the fourth in the world). As the snow begins to fall around May the lakes begin to cool down and get surrounded in icing sugar snow. Tongariro became New Zealand’s first national park in 1887. There are a vast number of rivers, lakes and streams within Tongariro National Park, some more well-known than others. When visiting the Tongariro National Park you instantly feel connected with the area through its breathtaking beauty. This status recognises both the park’s Māori cultural and spiritual significance, and its unique volcanic features. The history of Tongariro National Park is vast and very significant. Tongariro National Park has long been a New Zealand landmark as it’s one of only three World Heritage Sites in the country. High levels of biodiversity keep ecosystems healthy and resilient, which means that they continue providing vital ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling, climate regulation, air … This act by the Ngati Tuwharetoa made Tongariro, the first National Park in the world to be gifted by its indigenous people. Tongariro National Park is in the heart of the North Island and by and large one of the most popular national parks in the entire country. There are not many places in the world where you can do that! Stay in the heart of it all at The Park Hotel. It was in 1894 that Tongariro was named the fourth national park in the world and New Zealand’s first national park. Then in 1993, it became the first in the world to gain Dual World Heritage status after Tongariro representatives requested to nominate the park for its significant cultural value. These traits are made even more significant by the fact that Tongariro National Park is recognised by UNESCO as having dual World Heritage status for its cultural and natural features. And keeping the history of Tongariro alive ensures that these values will be continuously respected and protected by anyone who visits the area. "Tongariro is a sacred site, our first national park, a dual World Heritage Area for its cultural and natural values, and a drawcard for around a million visitors each year," Allan said. Being New Zealand’s first national park, it is also New Zealand’s oldest national park . It is one of 29 national parks in the whole world that boast a dual heritage status. The gods took fire from Whakaari (White Island), Moutohora (Whale Island), Okakaru, Tarawera, Paeroa, Orakeikorako and Taupo and sent it to Tongariro. We are lucky enough to be able to provide quality, comfortable accommodation in one of the most significant New Zealand landmarks. And, in winter, Mount Ruapehu is home to three of New Zealand’s favourite ski fields, Whakapapa, Turoa and Tukino. While Tongariro National Park was already a well-known tourist destination, it hit the world stage when the Lord of the Rings trilogy took the world by storm. The act also made it become a matter of 'public work' and 'under the control of the Governor'. The reference points are: • Between 39 degrees and 39.5 degrees South of the equators • Between 50 – 100km from the sea • Between 500 and 2700m above sea level • In the centre of the North Island of New Zealand (page 5, Natural Landscapes, Year 12 notes) 1. The Tongariro River itself runs through the park, spanning 604km. In 1993, Tongariro National Park was given its significant dual World Heritage status. It was the first National Park in the world to be listed under the revised criteria describing cultural landscapes. One particular location that we’re quite fond of is Tongariro National Park. Tongariro tourist places are also available from i-SITE visitor information centres. If there’s one thing that sets New Zealand apart from the rest of the world, it’s the beauty of the Maori legend. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Tongariro National Park, and which use the best local guides. Keeping an eye on the weather forcast is very important in New Zealand. According to the people of Ngati Tuwharetoa, archpriest of the Arawa canoe, Ngatoroirangi, visited Taupo in order to lay claim to the region. We think there’s nowhere on earth more beautiful. In 1993, the Tongariro National Park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’re fortunate to have so many stand-out spots here in New Zealand, each with their own unique traits. Legend links Ngatoroirangi with the creation of volcanoes and the naming o… Tongariro National Park’s location is right in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, making it easy to access from two of our main centres, Auckland and Wellington. The tribes are known as the region’s hau kainga, or ‘true people of the homeland’. But as the first National Park in the world to be gifted by its indigenous people, Tongariro National Park reflects the coming together of two cultures to preserve a sacred region. The hotel is your gateway to Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa and Turoa Snow Resorts. His calls were answered. Because most people are getting up early for the Tongariro Crossing or other outdoor activities, it’s a mostly quiet place. Tongariro cycling This tour, which involves walking or riding along the historic cobblestone Coach Road through a bush corridor on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, is an exciting adventure and a journey back in time. The hotel is your gateway to Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa and Turoa Snow Resorts. When we look out onto the three mountain peaks we see an area abundant with historical, cultural and spiritual significance. Just over one hundred years later, the park was awarded dual UNESCO World Heritage status for both its cultural significance to the Māori people, as well as its outstanding natural features. It’s clear to see where eruptions have created new formations among the landscape. The history of Tongariro has many different perspectives, both in legend and historical record. On the Corner of SH4 and Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, NZ Freephone 0800 800 491International +64 7 892 2748, Cnr State Highway 4 & Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, Copyright © 2017 - The Park Hotel, Ruapehu, The history of Tongariro gives the region deep cultural significance, Mt Ruapehu 2020 ski season guide to what’s on now, Whakapapa Skyline Walk - one of the best summer short walks, 5 amazing activities for family fun in Tongariro National Park. The Department of Conservation has kindly listed coordinates for each filming location to allow fans to find each spot with ease. In 1993, Tongariro National Park was the first national park to make it onto the World Heritage list under new cultural value criteria. If you are after the most vibrant coloured lakes you are best to go up there in the summer. While it’s not an official tour, it certainly gives LOTR fans something to talk about! That is also when it gained international significance and attention. In 1887, the Ngati Tuwharetoa people showed a great deal of generosity and foresight when they declared the Tongariro area as sacred, thus protecting the region’s future. Deemed as culturally, historically or environmentally significant by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the Tongariro National Park is one of just three areas in New Zealand which has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Especially if you are planning a visit to Tongariro National Park as we did. Our mountains, islands and surrounding seas all come with treasured stories that have been passed down through the centuries. The Ngati Tuwharetoa enacted a tuku (an act of customary love) with the intention of entering a partnership with the Crown (led by Queen Victoria at the time) to ensure long-lasting protection of Tongariro. Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro is the guardian hapū (sub-tribe) of Ngāti Tuwharetoa as the hau kāinga (true people of the homeland) for the Tongariro territory. The Emerald Lakes and the Blue Lakes offer iconic views during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Call us bias, but we think Tongariro National Park is a significant New Zealand landmark. However many travelers and backpackers stay there for more days as well. They partnered with the crown to enact a tuku (act of customary lore) to preserve the natural beauty of the three mountain peaks, Ngaruhoe, Tongiriro and Ruapehu. Book your stay with The Park Hotel this winter and take a moment to understand history of Tongariro National Park. Generally, people know about Tongariro’s amazing hikes and volcanic landscape, but understand less about the cultural values here and why visitors … It was Ngatoroirangi who named Tongariro and declared it the home for his tribe and descendants. The Waitangi Tribunal has today (12 November 2013) released its final report on 41 Treaty claims of ngā iwi and hapū of te kāhui maunga, the chiefly cluster of mountains, which include Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, Ruapehu, Pīhanga, Hauhungatahi, and … As a relatively young country, we are lucky to have so many recorded stories of how our landscapes came to be. While the thought of climbing an active volcano is an adventurer’s dream, the Tongariro volcanic zone is also a bustling location for outdoor activities. The mix of calm water and white rapids make the Tongariro River a hot spot for fishing, swimming, kayaking and white water rafting. The stories date back centuries, so let’s look at the history of Tongariro and why it’s so precious to the people of New Zealand. The diverse area is enriched with stories from the region’s tribe Ngati Tuwharetoa and their sub-tribe and guardian hapu, Ngati Hikairo ki Tongariro. Whether you come here to explore or relax, Tongariro National Park will be a place to remember forever. It was aimed to save and secure the land's cultural values as well as the tribe's prestige. The volcanoes are often what bring visitors to the region. From the vast history to the varied geology, this New Zealand landmark is simply unlike any other. The villages of National Park, Whakapapa, Raurimu and Erua lie at the heart of this volcanic wonderland. The only 3 star hotel in the region with stunning views of the 3 volcanoes — we provide a friendly, relaxed environment for you to stay after your day’s activities. Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy), and Ruapehu. The name Tongariro is said to describe the south wind that almost killed Ngatoroirangi. If there’s one thing that’s obvious to the naked eye, it’s that the landscape of Tongariro National Park is extremely diverse. Underestimating the strong south wind, Ngatoroirangi became weakened by the cold and strenuous climb. Call us today to book. Tongariro National Park tourist attractions and travel activities directory, New Zealand. It’s no secret that the Tongariro National Park is extremely close to our hearts here at The Park Hotel. In the heart of it all stand Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro: the three mighty volcanoes that form part of Tongariro National Park. It wasn’t until 1887 that the Ngati Tuwharetoa people sought to protect and preserve the mountains and land for all New Zealanders. Ancient lava flows, valleys and craters are some tell-tale signs of past eruptions. The park is home to three volcanoes, Tongariro, Ngaurohoe (a.k.a. Being New Zealand’s first national park, it is also New Zealand’s oldest national park. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, we highly recommend a visit to this incredible location. These traits are made even more significant by the fact that Tongariro National Park is recognised by UNESCO as having dual World Heritage status for its cultural and natural features. There is lots of Tongariro accommodation, no matter your budget. I found Metservice to give a quite accurate forecast for the next three to four days. Reaching. When he arrived at the summit he was almost chilled to death and called on his ancestral spirits to send fire to warm him. We couldn’t discuss the history of Tongariro without acknowledging Maori legend and there are many stories that describe how the mountains in the area came to be. When it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it became one of few sites that held dual status as a national park and world heritage site. The nearest railway station is in Findlay St which is 22 km from the center of the city. Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site and features a three active volcanoes - Mount Ruapheu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe - which each contribute to the incredible landscape of the park. Since this time, the area protected by its National Park status has grown from 2,640 hectares to 25,000 hectares. In 1894, the Tongariro National Park Act increased the park's size to nearly 25,000 ha. Generally, people know about Tongariro's amazing hikes and volcanic landscape, but understand less about the cultural values here and why visitors are asked to respect these". One of the first canoes was Te Arawa, and the Ngati Tuwharetoa — one of the iwi (tribes) that populated the area around Tongariro — holds ancestral identification with Ngatoroirangi, high priest and navigator of that canoe. To the Ngati Tuwharetoa, the region’s three mountain peaks, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, symbolise the spiritual connection between the community and environment. 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