Begin your winter journey in Auckland as the Northern Explorer Train carries you south through valleys, farmland, and forest toward the stunninf volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. Watch the city fade into sweeping wilderness as the landscape transforms with every km you pass.
At Whakapapa Village, nestled beneath Mount Ruapehu, the pace slows and the mountains surround you. Step on snowshoes for a guided walk through silent alpine trails, where snow-covered forests and sharp peaks create a setting that feels both serene and exhilarating. In the evening, warm fires, hearty meals, and cozy alpine lodging provide the perfect retreat after a day in the snow.
The following morning, bid farewell to the village and retrace your route north aboard the Northern Explorer. This short escape mixes train travel, mountain adventure, and winter comfort — a journey that captures the essence of New Zealand’s North Island in its most magical season. Join our tour and experience Tongariro’s winter landscapes in an unforgettable way!
over 10 y.o.
- Local prices – no extra feesBook tours directly from local tour providers
- Verified tour providersAll guides confirm their qualifications
- Reviews from travelersWe monitor the feedback from our travelers after each tour
Tour highlights
Route details
Meet your guide at Auckland Strand Station, near the Northern Explorer terminal — they’ll be holding a sign with your booking name. From here, board the Northern Explorer train and watch Auckland’s skyline fade into rolling farmland, vineyards, and native bush. As the train winds through the Waikato and into Tongariro National Park, the scenery becomes dramatic with volcanic peaks, deep gorges, and dense forest.
Arriving at National Park Village, take a shuttle to Whakapapa Village, nestled at the base of Mount Ruapehu. This alpine settlement offers a perfect gateway to Tongariro’s wilderness. In the afternoon, strap on snowshoes and step into a winter wonderland of snow-covered forests and volcanic landscapes, before retreating to your cozy lodge for the night.
Suitable for all ages, moderate level of physical activity required.
Accommodation
Settle into welcoming accommodation in Whakapapa Village, where comfort meets the snowy beauty of Tongariro National Park. Stay in an alpine lodge, rustic cabin, or snug hotel room — all designed for a peaceful night’s rest.
Tickets to group meeting place
Weather during the tour
- the forecasts for this season
- the statistics from previous years’ trips
Conditions
- train tickets;
- guided snowshoeing expedition;
- experienced and knowledgeable guide;
- specialized snowshoeing equipment;
- food and drinks;
- accommodation.
- flight tickets;
- equipment rental;
- additional activities.
It's important to know
- waterproof jacket;
- waterproof pants;
- warm jumper (fleece/wool/down) x 2;
- thermal base jumper x 2;
- thermal base leggings;
- warm pants (fleece/wool);
- warm gloves;
- warm beanie;
- neck warmer;
- 20l day pack;
- 1l+ water reservoir;
- pack liner / rubbish bag x 2;
- hiking boots.
Reviews
Dates and Prices
- from25 – 26 Jul2 days 1 night
- from1 – 2 Aug2 days 1 night
- from8 – 9 Aug2 days 1 night
- from15 – 16 Aug2 days 1 night
- from22 – 23 Aug2 days 1 night
