Tongariro Northern Circuit winds its way around the active volcanoes Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, showcasing the spectacular volcanic terrain of the central North Island.

The Tongariro Northern Circuit can be walked in either direction. The track is well marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep, rough or muddy.

Most people take 3 or 4 days, with 2 or 3 overnight stays. There are three huts, with campsites close by, on the Tongariro Northern Circuit. Mangatepopo, Oturere and Waihohonu. There are also shorter options available, suitable for the whole family and for those with less time available.

Altitude and climatic conditions mean the Tongariro Northern Circuit is best walked from late November to March.

For more information visit your DOC Visitor Centres nationwide

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If you're looking to experience active volcanos during one of the great walks NZ has to offer then go no further than the three to four-day Tongariro Northern Circuit tramp. Taking in the very famous Tongariro Crossing day walk, this hike lets you traverse some of the most barren, stunning, mountainous scenery New Zealand has to offer. My favourite part of this walk was my stop at Emerald Lakes. I still have the photos of my friends and I hamming it up on the side of the lake during our four-day tramp across the Northern Circuit. On the final day, you'll see the beautiful Tama Lakes before walking down into Whakapapa Village. And by then you're pretty sick of eating freeze-dried hiking food so I reckon the best place to go for a decent feed and good beer is The Powderkeg Restaurant & Bar. Their menu changes regularly and they've got lots of boutique beers on tap. Plus you're bound to bump into a local with a good story about the area.