Tongariro National Park in Winter

Tongariro National Park is located in the central North Island. It has one of the best treks in New Zealand which is called Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The trek distance is 19.4km (about 6-8 hours walk). Tongariro National Park is an active volcanic area, so anyone tramping here could be in danger as eruption may happen anytime without warning!

The summer view and winter view of the Tongariro National park are totally different. Most of the people go tramping in the summer because it is easier to accomplish. In the winter, it is advised to join a tour (costs at least NZD$160+) for people without proper experience and equipment. Tour guide is not needed in the summer as it is generally safe.

I joined a popular tour company (Adrift NZ) during my first visit to the Tongariro National Park in the winter. I wish to complete the whole track; however I was told that it is not possible because an eruption happened few days ago and some roads were closed. After 7-8km walking, we have to turn back to the starting point hence will not be able to see the famous Emerald Lake. Well, who cares? I still want to do it because I don’t know when I will be visiting here again.

I stayed two nights in the beautiful Tongariro National Park Village:

We started the tramping in the early morning. It was a really really tiring walk for me! I am not a sport person, moreover I have anemia which makes me exhausted easily. Unfortunately I was the only female in the team, so I felt very stressful and guilty as I was slowing down the team.

The walk is tiring but it is worthwhile. Once I get to the hill, my mind went blank. The view in front of me was indeed too amazing! The mountain is full with white snows accompanied by extremely blue sky, it just seems… unreal. It doesn’t look real at all. It is truly breath-taking. I couldn’t think of any other thing by looking at such a magnificent view.

Although the view is very beautiful, the walk is getting difficult for me. I don’t like to wear the crampon and use the ice axe. The road was very slippery so I have to be extra careful in every move. Probably I am too weak in outdoor activities. I did not have the mood to enjoy the awesome view after a while because I put all my attention in balancing my body.

Must be very careful when walking down the mountain, else could be in danger! I fallen down accidentally when I was trying to slide down the mountain, as I failed to control my body. I was rescued by a German guy. I was slightly injured and lost my pair of glasses. (By the way, the red liquid in the photo below is the raspberry juice from the person who rescued me).

We were rewarded a relaxing beer after a long walk!

 

Summer experience is totally different for me. Read my summer experience.