Winter
On the way South from Taupo on the Kiwi Bus, we stopped in National Park and Whakapapa. Right in the middle of the North Island, Whakapapa is the center of Tongariro National Park.
Whakapapa has the iconic Chateau Tongariro Hotel and Department of Conservation Visitor Center. There are tons of walks varying in distance around the area, along with ski fields in the winter.
Just over 3k, this loop trail takes you from grassy plains to rocky streams and then forest in a circle you can walk in either direction. It will take about 2 hours and this loop is also included in the Northern Circuit Great Walk.
I initially did this walk in the winter, but came back in the summer to do it again. On a clear day you can see out west to Mt. Taranaki.
I prefer to start at then end of the Ngauruhoe Terrace, or the Upper Track, and go counter-clockwise.
Entering into a short bush walk, you then encounter several eroded gullies.
When you reach the Tama Lakes conjunction keep left to cross Wairere Stream where you are at the top of the falls.
Summer
From here there are 100 steps down and you are at the bottom of the falls.
Some people are brave enough to take a dip in the summer. Others bring lunch and eat at one of the picnic tables.
The water falls just over 20 meters! From here you continue downhill over a small gorge and enter bush again. Following the stream you enter back into open field and follow signs for the Chateau.
TIP: This really is a perfect day hike if you are in the area. Bring lunch along and spend some extra time taking in the falls.
Have you done a walk in both the winter and summer? Which was your favorite?