Our most recommended things to do in Manawatū-Whanganui

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

1. Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Premium Guided Hike

Experience the landscape of Tongariro, peppered with different coloured and shaped craters that have been active at different periods, scoured volcanic rocks, mountain springs and brightly coloured emerald lakes on a 1-day trek.  In Summer, discover a majestic landscape of recent resultant volcanic activity. See how the vast array of colours and textures created from Sulphur, Aluminium, Silica, and many other mineral deposits released from within the Earth’s Crust. Follow your guide along alternative paths so you can escape the crowds whilst still experience the popular sights.  In Winter, enjoy the opportunity to walk through the magnificent snow-covered landscape without the summer crowds. No outdoor experience is necessary, all training and tuition are given on the day. Crampons and ice-axes are supplied by Adrift Tongariro for a fantastic alpine experience. Please note that reaching the Ketatahi end is not guaranteed. Safety regarding, weather, avalanche, ice and hypothermia are taken into consideration when securing the exact route for the day. Individual and group bookings are accepted. If you are travelling alone please book as the operator generally always meet minimum numbers, especially on good weather days.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Hike Trail Roundtrip Shuttle

2. Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Hike Trail Roundtrip Shuttle

Take the worry out of driving to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with a convenient roundtrip shuttle with morning pick and afternoon return shuttle transfers.   Enjoy one of the best one-day hikes in the world, which has received the honor of being rated the #1 one-day hike in New Zealand. Embark on a 6-8 hour hike that offers some challenging climbs and breathtaking views of the Tongariro National Park. If you want to hike at a slower pace, take an early shuttle in the morning and late shuttle in the afternoon, which allows for ample time to get through the trail comfortably.

Taupo: Mt Ruapehu Volcanic Vista Flight

3. Taupo: Mt Ruapehu Volcanic Vista Flight

Set off on a thrilling journey through the natural wonders of New Zealand with a 1-hour seaplane flight. Departing from a jetty in Taupo bay, you’ll take off and head south, beginning your volcanic sightseeing with Mount Pihanga, before soaring over the Blue and Emerald Lakes towards the massive summit of Mount Ruapehu, towering nearly 10,000 feet above sea level.  Circling the summit, you’ll view the Crater Lake, tapering down to the volcano’s broad ski slopes. Turning northward, you’ll fly towards Mount Ngauruhoe, with the opportunity to gaze down into its immense center. Continuing onward, soar over Mount Tongariro, viewing the Red Crater, the Blue Lake, and ancient lava flows, before beginning your descent over Lake Taupo to land along the lakefront.

Tongariro Self-Guided Audio Tour

4. Tongariro Self-Guided Audio Tour

Download a vibrant MP3 self-guided audio tour combined with a fully detailed map of the area of your tour. Explore the stunningly beautiful and popular area of Tongariro which is made up of 3 volcanic peaks. In this audio tour, learn about the volcanic activity and the craters that are found in the area like the Red, Central and North Crater. This 7-hour hike will tell you about Māori myths and legends as you walk along this legendary area that was also made famous by the filming of The Lord of the Rings. You will also see the Lower Mangatepopo Valley, Mount Ruapehu, Soda Springs, Upper Mangatepopo Valley, Ngauruhoe Summit, the Oturere Valley Lookout, the Emerald Lakes, Blue Lake, Lake Rotoaira with North Views, Ketetahi Springs, and the Totara Forest. Your tour. Your way.

Pukeokahu: Full Day Family Rafting on the Rangitikei River

5. Pukeokahu: Full Day Family Rafting on the Rangitikei River

Begin your 4-hour adventure by getting geared up and listening to a quick safety briefing from your experienced guide. As you glide down the river, listen to the thundering of the river canyon plunging behind you.  Be whisked downstream by a stream of turbulent whitewater as your guide expertly navigates the river, surrounded by the immense cliffs that cradle the canyon. Stop for a picnic lunch in one of these sections, after which you will enjoy a relaxing float out to the take out. At the end of the river, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the river and go for a hike to a hidden waterfall if the weather permits.  For those wanting more of an adventure, you can take this trip in an inflatable kayak. Or, for those who are less active, oared rafts are available.

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What people are saying about Manawatū-Whanganui

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 99 reviews

Highly recommend! The park shuttles were closed so we booked these shuttles for Christmas day. They answered my call with questions the day before (Christmas eve at 6pm). The drivers were warm and helpful all Christmas day. They even had 2 shuttles running to double the accessibility. She actively waited to see if people were running down the hill to catch the shuttle.

Very good and punctual service. However, be aware that people (mostly middle aged males) are super pushy and non respectful when getting on the return bus

The shuttle was so convenient for a great day - just made it so simple. The driver was a wealth of knowledge on the area too.

Really great to not have to think about drop off and pick up. Friendly service and knowledgeable drivers.

You have to be well trained, Bit it is a Great joerney