Tag Archive for: Red Crater

Spectacular Tongariro

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Chapter 3: The Crossing and the Northern Circuit

Rainbow in front of Lake Rotoaira, Ketetahi Hut, Tongariro National Park, North Island, New Zealand

There are places where, upon returning, I realise just how much their atmosphere enchants me. One of these is Ketetahi Hut, which sits high on the sunny northern slopes of Tongariro and marks the start of the final stage of the Tongariro Crossing—the descent to the car park. I love lying on the terrace in front of the hut, enjoying the view over the wind-rippled surface of Lake Rotoaira, the lush green, forest-clad Kakaramea mountain range, and the silver mirror of Lake Taupo. The electrifying moods at sunrise or sunset are incomparable; those nights where the lights of Taupo merge with the twinkling stars into a single universe! Roaring hot sulphur steam rises from the nearby Ketetahi Springs, which doesn’t dampen the hut’s popularity for a rest, a spot of sunbathing, or an overnight stay. Consequently, it can get a bit crowded there on some days. Read more

Red Crater and Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National Park

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Red Crater, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

The Red Crater is the highlight of the Tongariro Crossing, the hike through the volcanic massif of Tongariro National Park, which can also be extended into the Northern Circuit. At this point, the paths from Oturere, Ketetahi and Mangatepopo Hut meet. The vibrant green Emerald Lakes contrast with the sulphurous yellow, red, and black ashes of the Tongariro Red Crater, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu volcanoes in the background.