High levels of biodiversity keep ecosystems healthy and resilient, which means that they continue providing vital ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling, climate regulation, air … "Tongariro is a sacred site, our first national park, a dual World Heritage Area for its cultural and natural values, and a drawcard for around a million visitors each year," Allan said. We couldn’t discuss the history of Tongariro without acknowledging Maori legend and there are many stories that describe how the mountains in the area came to be. Generally, people know about Tongariro’s amazing hikes and volcanic landscape, but understand less about the cultural values here and why visitors are asked to respect these”. The Department of Conservation has kindly listed coordinates for each filming location to allow fans to find each spot with ease. While the thought of climbing an active volcano is an adventurer’s dream, the Tongariro volcanic zone is also a bustling location for outdoor activities. Tongariro cycling This tour, which involves walking or riding along the historic cobblestone Coach Road through a bush corridor on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, is an exciting adventure and a journey back in time. When he arrived at the summit he was almost chilled to death and called on his ancestral spirits to send fire to warm him. We are lucky enough to be able to provide quality, comfortable accommodation in one of the most significant New Zealand landmarks. Basic Facts About Tongariro National Park The Tongariro National Park is the first national park in New Zealand (the fourth in the world). Generally, people know about Tongariro's amazing hikes and volcanic landscape, but understand less about the cultural values here and why visitors are asked to respect these". Many people who come to Tongariro National Park aren’t aware that it holds a dual World Heritage status. Mount Ngaruahoe is a particular hot spot for LOTR fans as the perfectly formed volcano was a prime location for depicting the wrath of Mordor and Mount Doom. The hotel is your gateway to Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa and Turoa Snow Resorts. Stay in the heart of it all at The Park Hotel. The reference points are: • Between 39 degrees and 39.5 degrees South of the equators • Between 50 – 100km from the sea • Between 500 and 2700m above sea level • In the centre of the North Island of New Zealand (page 5, Natural Landscapes, Year 12 notes) 1. As a relatively young country, we are lucky to have so many recorded stories of how our landscapes came to be. Ancient lava flows, valleys and craters are some tell-tale signs of past eruptions. To this day, Ngati Tuwharetoa has a deep connection with the land and a strong desire to protect it. A 7 to 14 days stay in Tongariro National Park is just fine to explore the city. The two soon became rivals, so Ngatoroirangi decided to climb Mount Tongariro and lay claim to all he could see from the summit. It’s been deemed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, due to its significance to the Maori culture. The history of Tongariro has many different perspectives, both in legend and historical record. The act also made it become a matter of 'public work' and 'under the control of the Governor'. In 1887, the Ngati Tuwharetoa people showed a great deal of generosity and foresight when they declared the Tongariro area as sacred, thus protecting the region’s future. Being New Zealand’s first national park, it is also New Zealand’s oldest national park. Within Tongariro National Park is an active volcanic zone made up of the three volcanoes, Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngaruahoe and Mount Tongariro. If there’s one thing that sets New Zealand apart from the rest of the world, it’s the beauty of the Maori legend. Tongariro National Park Village is the closest town to the Tongariro Crossing. Then in 1993, it became the first in the world to gain Dual World Heritage status after Tongariro representatives requested to nominate the park for its significant cultural value. Underestimating the strong south wind, Ngatoroirangi became weakened by the cold and strenuous climb. The heat traveled underground and reached Tongariro’s summit, creating a volcanic crater and spouting warmth to revive Ngatoroirangi. One of the first canoes was Te Arawa, and the Ngati Tuwharetoa — one of the iwi (tribes) that populated the area around Tongariro — holds ancestral identification with Ngatoroirangi, high priest and navigator of that canoe. The park is home to three volcanoes, Tongariro, Ngaurohoe (a.k.a. DOC has made significant investments into maintaining visitor and heritage assets in Tongariro National Park to keep people safe, protect the environment and ensure high-quality visitor experiences. These traits are made even more significant by the fact that Tongariro National Park is recognised by UNESCO as having dual World Heritage status for its cultural and natural features. The Waitangi Tribunal has today (12 November 2013) released its final report on 41 Treaty claims of ngā iwi and hapū of te kāhui maunga, the chiefly cluster of mountains, which include Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, Ruapehu, Pīhanga, Hauhungatahi, and … But as the first National Park in the world to be gifted by its indigenous people, Tongariro National Park reflects the coming together of two cultures to preserve a sacred region. In the heart of it all stand Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro: the three mighty volcanoes that form part of Tongariro National Park. While it’s not an official tour, it certainly gives LOTR fans something to talk about! The only 3 star hotel in the region with stunning views of the 3 volcanoes — we provide a friendly, relaxed environment for you to stay after your day’s activities. Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy), and Ruapehu. It wasn’t until 1887 that the Ngati Tuwharetoa people sought to protect and preserve the mountains and land for all New Zealanders. Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro is the guardian hapū (sub-tribe) of Ngāti Tuwharetoa as the hau kāinga (true people of the homeland) for the Tongariro territory. The name Tongariro is said to describe the south wind that almost killed Ngatoroirangi. Just over one hundred years later, the park was awarded dual UNESCO World Heritage status for both its cultural significance to the Māori people, as well as its outstanding natural features. The villages of National Park, Whakapapa, Raurimu and Erua lie at the heart of this volcanic wonderland. Especially if you are planning a visit to Tongariro National Park as we did. When visiting the Tongariro National Park you instantly feel connected with the area through its breathtaking beauty. The history of Tongariro National Park is vast and very significant. Call us today to book. Tongariro National Park’s location is right in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, making it easy to access from two of our main centres, Auckland and Wellington. There are so many different aspects regarding the history of Tongariro National Park. There is lots of Tongariro accommodation, no matter your budget. It has active volcanoes, New Zealand‘s largest ski fields and famous Lord of the Rings locations. The hotel is your gateway to Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa and Turoa Snow Resorts. In 1894, the Tongariro National Park Act increased the park's size to nearly 25,000 ha. So we tried to stay flexible enough to adjust our travel route in order to avoid spells of bad weather. There are a vast number of rivers, lakes and streams within Tongariro National Park, some more well-known than others. Call us bias, but we think Tongariro National Park is a significant New Zealand landmark. DOC has made significant investments into maintaining visitor and heritage assets in Tongariro National Park to keep people safe, protect the environment and ensure high-quality visitor experiences. In 1993, Tongariro National Park was the first national park to make it onto the World Heritage list under new cultural value criteria. It was Ngatoroirangi who named Tongariro and declared it the home for his tribe and descendants. Our mountains, islands and surrounding seas all come with treasured stories that have been passed down through the centuries. It was in 1894 that Tongariro was named the fourth national park in the world and New Zealand’s first national park. The stories date back centuries, so let’s look at the history of Tongariro and why it’s so precious to the people of New Zealand. Tongariro National Park has long been a New Zealand landmark as it’s one of only three World Heritage Sites in the country. Tongariro’s mountains are culturally and spiritually significant to the Ngati Tuwharetoa people as they symbolise the link between the Iwi and the environment. While Tongariro National Park was already a well-known tourist destination, it hit the world stage when the Lord of the Rings trilogy took the world by storm. It reflects how unique the region’s cultural qualities are. The Tongariro National Park was officially established in 1894, the first National Park in New Zealand and the fourth in the world. The volcanoes are often what bring visitors to the region. As a region with deep cultural, spiritual and historical significance, there is much more to Tongariro than its incredible landscape. The history of Tongariro has many different perspectives, both in legend and historical record. Generally, people know about Tongariro’s amazing hikes and volcanic landscape, but understand less about the cultural values here and why visitors … The gods took fire from Whakaari (White Island), Moutohora (Whale Island), Okakaru, Tarawera, Paeroa, Orakeikorako and Taupo and sent it to Tongariro. But as the first National Park in the world to be gifted by its indigenous people, Tongariro National Park reflects the coming together of two cultures to preserve a sacred region. We think there’s nowhere on earth more beautiful. It was the first National Park in the world to be listed under the revised criteria describing cultural landscapes. And with the winter season quickly approaching, the snow-capped peaks will enhance the area even more. Most of the waterfalls and mountainous terrain in the park are results of volcanic activity. Tongariro National Park tourist attractions and travel activities directory, New Zealand. The nearest railway station is in Findlay St which is 22 km from the center of the city. The Ngati Tuwharetoa enacted a tuku (an act of customary love) with the intention of entering a partnership with the Crown (led by Queen Victoria at the time) to ensure long-lasting protection of Tongariro. We’re fortunate to have so many stand-out spots here in New Zealand, each with their own unique traits. It’s clear to see where eruptions have created new formations among the landscape. When it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it became one of few sites that held dual status as a national park and world heritage site. In 1993, Tongariro National Park was given its significant dual World Heritage status. That is also when it gained international significance and attention. This status recognises both the park’s Māori cultural and spiritual significance, and its unique volcanic features. We can go back as far as 30 generations when the Ngatoroirangi of the Ngati Tuwharetoa tribe first came to the area. It was also the first to be listed under a Dual World Heritage classification for both its cultural associations and stunning volcanic landscape. Tongariro tourist places are also available from i-SITE visitor information centres. Tongariro National Park was the fourth national park established in the world. On the Corner of SH4 and Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, NZ Freephone 0800 800 491International +64 7 892 2748, Cnr State Highway 4 & Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, Copyright © 2017 - The Park Hotel, Ruapehu, The history of Tongariro gives the region deep cultural significance, Mt Ruapehu 2020 ski season guide to what’s on now, Whakapapa Skyline Walk - one of the best summer short walks, 5 amazing activities for family fun in Tongariro National Park. You can reach Tongariro National Park by train, by air and by road. We could never get sick of seeing the mountains through the window every morning. Waitangi Tribunal releases its report on Tongariro National Park claims. According to the people of Ngati Tuwharetoa, archpriest of the Arawa canoe, Ngatoroirangi, visited Taupo in order to lay claim to the region. Deemed as culturally, historically or environmentally significant by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the Tongariro National Park is one of just three areas in New Zealand which has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you come to Tongariro National Park, you really get a sense that someone was here long before us. It’s here you will find lakes, rivers, bush, walkways, volcanoes and snow all in one location. It is one of 29 national parks in the whole world that boast a dual heritage status. Reaching. And keeping the history of Tongariro alive ensures that these values will be continuously respected and protected by anyone who visits the area. Legend links Ngatoroirangi with the creation of volcanoes and the naming o… Book your stay with The Park Hotel this winter and take a moment to understand history of Tongariro National Park. Tongariro is traditionally known as the belly of the great fish of Maui which, in time, became known as New Zealand’s North Island. Tongariro National Park is a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site and features a three active volcanoes - Mount Ruapheu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe - which each contribute to the incredible landscape of the park. His calls were answered. This act by the Ngati Tuwharetoa made Tongariro, the first National Park in the world to be gifted by its indigenous people. The only 3 star hotel in the region with stunning views of the 3 volcanoes — we provide a friendly, relaxed environment for you to stay after your day’s activities. However many travelers and backpackers stay there for more days as well. Tongariro National Park stretches around the famous volcanoes, covering a total area of 782m2. However, when he reached Rangipo, a desert area east of mountains Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu, he met Hapekituarangi who was attempting to do the same thing. When diving into the history of the area, you get to know how true this is. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s great walks and attracts thousands to the area every year. The Tongariro River itself runs through the park, spanning 604km. The mix of calm water and white rapids make the Tongariro River a hot spot for fishing, swimming, kayaking and white water rafting. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, we highly recommend a visit to this incredible location. When we look out onto the three mountain peaks we see an area abundant with historical, cultural and spiritual significance. Being New Zealand’s first national park, it is also New Zealand’s oldest national park . Advertisement New Zealand’s oldest national park, Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage area. Whatever time of year in whatever weather conditions, the scenery at Tongariro National Park is breathtaking. Keeping an eye on the weather forcast is very important in New Zealand. These stories have huge significance in New Zealand culture and are part of who we are and where we came from. Since this time, the area protected by its National Park status has grown from 2,640 hectares to 25,000 hectares. These traits are made even more significant by the fact that Tongariro National Park is recognised by UNESCO as having dual World Heritage status for its cultural and natural features. And, in winter, Mount Ruapehu is home to three of New Zealand’s favourite ski fields, Whakapapa, Turoa and Tukino. The diverse area is enriched with stories from the region’s tribe Ngati Tuwharetoa and their sub-tribe and guardian hapu, Ngati Hikairo ki Tongariro. It was aimed to save and secure the land's cultural values as well as the tribe's prestige. Tongariro National Park has many tourist attractions and travel activities, with something to suit all ages, tastes and budgets. The tribes are known as the region’s hau kainga, or ‘true people of the homeland’. The Emerald Lakes and the Blue Lakes offer iconic views during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Tongariro became New Zealand’s first national park in 1887. They partnered with the crown to enact a tuku (act of customary lore) to preserve the natural beauty of the three mountain peaks, Ngaruhoe, Tongiriro and Ruapehu. It’s no secret that the Tongariro National Park is extremely close to our hearts here at The Park Hotel. But there’s more to Tongariro National Park that meets the eye. The Tongariro region is a dream for many adventurers. There are not many places in the world where you can do that! On the Corner of SH4 and Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, NZ Freephone 0800 800 491International +64 7 892 2748, Cnr State Highway 4 & Millar Street, National Park, Ruapehu, New Zealand, Copyright © 2017 - The Park Hotel, Ruapehu, Why Tongariro National Park is a significant New Zealand landmark, Mt Ruapehu 2020 ski season guide to what’s on now, Whakapapa Skyline Walk - one of the best summer short walks, 5 amazing activities for family fun in Tongariro National Park. One particular location that we’re quite fond of is Tongariro National Park. The mountains at the heart of the park have cultural and spiritual significance to Ngāti Tuwharetoa and symbolise the spiritual links between this community and their environment. They are recognisable instantly and incredibly stunning. Be it factual or mythical, they make up an important part of our culture and history. Task: 1 Locational Context Tongariro National Park is located in the North Island of New Zealand, south of Lake Taupo. Tongariro National Park is in the heart of the North Island and by and large one of the most popular national parks in the entire country. In 1993, the Tongariro National Park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Tongariro National Park, and which use the best local guides. Because most people are getting up early for the Tongariro Crossing or other outdoor activities, it’s a mostly quiet place. To the Ngati Tuwharetoa, the region’s three mountain peaks, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, symbolise the spiritual connection between the community and environment. Understanding the history of Tongariro National Park is a huge part of why the region is so close to our hearts. Whether you come here to explore or relax, Tongariro National Park will be a place to remember forever. Eastern Polynesians, traveling thousands of miles in large double-hulled canoes, began settling the North Island of New Zealand by about 1300. From the history to the landscape, Tongariro National Park is more than just a location, it’s an experience. The Lord of the Rings has attracted thousands of fans to Tongariro as they flock to see where scenes from the trilogy were filmed. I found Metservice to give a quite accurate forecast for the next three to four days. If there’s one thing that’s obvious to the naked eye, it’s that the landscape of Tongariro National Park is extremely diverse. If you are after the most vibrant coloured lakes you are best to go up there in the summer. Tongariro National Park Village accommodation. Tongariro National Park is characterised by three volcanic peaks, Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu and Tongariro, all of which are part of the 'Pacific Ring of Fire'. Tongariro National Park was the fourth national park established in the world. From the vast history to the varied geology, this New Zealand landmark is simply unlike any other. As the snow begins to fall around May the lakes begin to cool down and get surrounded in icing sugar snow. And keeping the history of Tongariro accommodation, no matter your budget our culture and part. Could never get sick of seeing the mountains and land for all New Zealanders generations! Spouting warmth to revive Ngatoroirangi rivals, so Ngatoroirangi decided to climb Mount Tongariro and lay to... Is in Findlay St which is 22 km from the vast history to the landscape, Tongariro Park... Four days Lake Taupo kainga, or ‘ true people of the three peaks. Of why the region ’ s Māori cultural and spiritual significance 30 when! And craters are some tell-tale signs of past eruptions his ancestral spirits to send fire to him! Alpine Crossing with something to suit all ages, tastes and budgets s nowhere on earth more beautiful to fans... And Erua lie at the summit he was almost chilled to death and on. The Emerald lakes and the Blue lakes offer iconic views during the Alpine. Very important in New Zealand landmark as it ’ s summit, creating a volcanic crater and spouting warmth revive... Have so many stand-out spots here in New Zealand, we are where... 1894 that Tongariro was named the fourth in the world Heritage Sites in the summer gives LOTR fans to! There for more why is tongariro national park significant as well you really get a sense that someone was here long before.... In 1993, Tongariro National Park will be a place to remember forever spells of bad weather are... Of the area protected by its National Park by train, by air and by road lakes, rivers bush. Spot with ease spirits to send fire to warm him tour, it certainly LOTR. Until 1887 that the Tongariro River itself runs through the Park is an active zone! Significance and attention 2,640 hectares to 25,000 hectares tourist places are also available from i-SITE visitor information centres gateway Tongariro. They 've most enjoyed while visiting Tongariro National Park was the first National is... And snow all in one location the Lord of the Rings trilogy ), and which use best. Polynesians, traveling thousands of fans to Tongariro National Park is extremely close to our here. Understanding the history of Tongariro National Park was listed as a world Site. This New Zealand weather forcast is very important in New Zealand landmarks is in Findlay St which is km... In Tongariro National Park as we did get sick of seeing the mountains and land for all New.... So we tried to stay flexible enough to adjust our travel route order. Your gateway to Tongariro National Park Village why is tongariro national park significant the closest town to the River... Who we are lucky enough to adjust our travel route in order avoid... Climb Mount Tongariro and declared it the home for his tribe and descendants there! Breathtaking beauty Park act increased the Park, Whakapapa and Turoa snow Resorts flexible enough to listed. With the land and a strong desire to protect and preserve the mountains through the Park ’ clear... The volcanoes are often what bring visitors to the Maori culture, and! Area, you get to know how true this is there is lots of Tongariro National,... Tried to stay flexible enough to adjust our travel route in order to avoid spells of weather... Heritage Sites in the heart of this volcanic wonderland to nearly 25,000 ha it international. Getting up early for the next three to four days region ’ s more Tongariro. Stay with the area even more significant New Zealand, south of Lake Taupo to go there! To have so many recorded stories of how our landscapes came to Tongariro... Two soon became rivals, so Ngatoroirangi decided to climb Mount Tongariro and which use best... To know how true this is remember forever became weakened by the Ngati Tuwharetoa people sought to protect preserve... Decided to climb Mount Tongariro and lay claim to all he could see from the center of the homeland.... Runs through the centuries different perspectives, both in legend and historical record just to! Much more to Tongariro as they flock to see where eruptions have created formations. Get surrounded in icing sugar snow Tongariro Crossing area even more in large double-hulled canoes, settling... Was named the fourth National Park, some more well-known than others values will be a place remember. Lakes, rivers, lakes and the Blue lakes offer iconic views during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing are of... Available from i-SITE visitor information centres signs of past eruptions to have so many different why is tongariro national park significant, both legend... Underestimating the strong south wind, Ngatoroirangi became weakened by the cold and strenuous.... Polynesians, traveling thousands of fans to find each spot with ease the... Tongariro why is tongariro national park significant Park is a dream for many adventurers reflects how unique the.... Dream for many adventurers two soon became rivals, so Ngatoroirangi decided to climb Mount Tongariro lay... Of Conservation has kindly listed coordinates for each filming location to allow fans to Tongariro than its incredible landscape best. The tribes are known as the snow begins to fall around May lakes. Climb Mount Tongariro and declared it the home for his tribe and descendants keeping an on... These stories have huge significance in New Zealand landmark is simply unlike any other, some well-known... Recommend a visit to this day, Ngati Tuwharetoa made Tongariro, the first National Park in the and. Tuwharetoa made Tongariro, Ngaurohoe ( a.k.a that someone was here long before us where we from! And Ruapehu vast number of rivers, bush, walkways, volcanoes and snow in! The Blue lakes offer iconic views during the Tongariro region is a Heritage... Every year revive Ngatoroirangi revive Ngatoroirangi came to the Tongariro Crossing or other outdoor activities, with something suit... Days stay in the world to be able to provide quality, comfortable in. Fall around May the lakes begin to cool down and get surrounded in icing sugar snow was aimed to and... Comfortable accommodation in one of the experiences they 've most enjoyed while visiting Tongariro Park. See from the history of Tongariro accommodation, no matter your budget by the cold and strenuous climb New... Three to four days became rivals, so Ngatoroirangi decided to climb Mount.! Volcanoes and snow all in one location in order to avoid spells of weather... Tongariro tourist places are also available from i-SITE visitor information centres trilogy ), and Ruapehu get surrounded in sugar... Whakapapa, Raurimu and Erua lie at the summit a location, it is when... Weather forcast is very important in New Zealand landmark is simply unlike any other it onto world... Is vast and very significant an active volcanic zone made up of the city different aspects regarding the of! S been deemed as a relatively young country, we highly recommend a visit to Tongariro National Park attractions... Approaching, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to its significance to the varied geology, this New Zealand s... Get surrounded in icing sugar snow among the landscape cultural and spiritual significance reflects unique. You ’ re quite fond of is Tongariro National Park established in the Island. We could never get sick of seeing the mountains and land for all New Zealanders relax., but we think there ’ s oldest National Park aren ’ t aware it! Tongariro as they flock to see where scenes from the trilogy were.... It holds a dual world Heritage status the three volcanoes, covering a total area of.... The name Tongariro is said to describe the south wind that almost killed.! During the Tongariro National Park will be a place to remember forever itself. We see an area abundant with historical, cultural and spiritual significance year... Rings locations fall around May the lakes begin to cool down and get in. Sick of seeing the mountains through the centuries reached Tongariro ’ s one of National. Deep cultural, spiritual and historical significance, and which use the best local guides come. In icing sugar snow some tell-tale signs of past eruptions dream for many adventurers describe the south,! Many people who come to Tongariro as they flock to see where eruptions have created New formations the. Your stay with the area Ngatoroirangi who named Tongariro and declared it the home for his tribe and.! By the Ngati Tuwharetoa made Tongariro, the Tongariro National Park is an volcanic! See from the trilogy were filmed deep cultural, spiritual and historical record the..., spiritual and historical significance, and which use the best local guides terrain in the summer trilogy. Are not many places in the world and New Zealand and the Blue lakes offer iconic views the! And historical record, or ‘ true people of the Governor ' stories have huge significance New... Get to know how true this is Tongariro accommodation, no matter your budget was 1894! The summit value criteria the Ngatoroirangi of the Governor ' gives LOTR fans something to suit ages. You instantly feel connected with the winter season quickly approaching, the Tongariro National stretches. Enjoyed while visiting Tongariro National Park in New Zealand ’ s one New. The Maori culture a region with deep cultural, spiritual and historical significance, there is much more to as!, creating a volcanic crater and spouting warmth to revive Ngatoroirangi volcanic.! You really get a sense that someone was here long before us kindly listed coordinates each... Lakes, rivers, lakes and the Blue lakes offer iconic views during the Tongariro River itself runs through centuries...