EXPLORE OHAKUNE
Whether it’s exploring the National Parks, enjoying the snow at the largest ski areas in New Zealand or enjoying Ohakune’s varied entertainment, restaurants and cafés, there’s something for everyone in the region, summer or winter.
Ohakune Township
For its size, Ohakune is surprisingly well equipped, with local businesses offering everything from refuelling to relaxing and enjoying a meal or a drink. The town has a fantastic selection of bars, restaurant, cafes and local services. You’ll find information about what’s available in your room or contact us for recommendations during your stay.
Skiing / Snowboarding
Mount Ruapehu is home to the North Island's ski fields, and Ohakune is an ideal base for experiencing the slopes. With superb views and runs to suit all abilities, there’s something for everyone. The opportunity to ski on an active volcano is inique experience that few visitors can pass up!
Museums & Galleries
The Ruapehu district is rich in history and culture. Visit our local Railway Museum which features a wide variety of displays exploring the history of the Railway Settlement. Take a walk around The Junction area where laborers and engineers settled, some of the buildings dating back as early as the 1800’s.
For a family outing, take the short 20-minute drive to The National Army Museum in Waiouru, showcasing NZ Military History. Explore historical photographs, an extensive library and archives, and displays and exhibitions featuring Military Equipment and Memorabilia. There is plenty to discover and learn for visitors of all ages.
Hiking / Bushwalking
Perfectly positioned at the southern gateway to the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, Ohakune is an ideal base for exploring the region’s walking tracks and trails. From shorter, easier walks to more challenging hikes through native bush and alpine landscapes, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Ruapehu region.
Ohakune’s facilities and services are well suited to outdoor activities, with local knowledge available to help you choose walks and tracks to suit your interests, time and ability. After a day exploring, return to the comfort of The Hobbit™ Motorlodge and make use of our facilities to relax.
we’re happy to provide further information and recommendations on walking routes during your stay.
Mt Ruapehu Summer Magic
Mt Ruapehu isn’t just about snow. It is equally spectacular in summer. During the warmer months, visitors can experience the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the mountain and explore the unique natural environment of Tongariro National Park.
One of the highlights is the spectacular journey towards the pristine Crater Lake, near the highest point in the North Island. Along the way, visitors can learn about the geological and cultural significance of Mt Ruapehu and the surrounding Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s first dual World Heritage site.
For a deeper understanding of the mountain and its stories, local Ngati Hikairo Cultural Guides and experienced safety and mountaineering guides provide insight and guidance as you explore this remarkable alpine environment.
Mountain Biking
Ohakune is a popular cycling destination in the North Island, with fantastic trails ranging from easy 15 minutes riverside rides to multi day cross terrain adventures. The area offers something for a wide range of cycling abilities and interests, from relaxed rides through the surrounding countryside to more challenging trails.
Ohakune is home to the Ohakune Old Coach Road and is also a gateway to popular rides including the Bridge to Nowhere, 42 Traverse and the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail.
Bike can be hired from several operators in Ohakune, with some also offering transport to trailheads and providing maps and local information to help you plan your ride.
We also have secure bike storage available for guests, making The Hobbit™ Motorlodge a convenient base for exploring the region by bike.
Golf
Just a 5 minute drive from Ohakune, Waimarino Golf Club offers an 18 hole, par 71 course set among beautiful natural surroundings, with impressive views and good year round playing conditions. Whether you visit in summer, when the course enjoys a peaceful setting surrounded by native bush, or in winter, with snow covered Mt Ruapehu providing a spectacular backdrop, golf is a great alternative when you’re looking for an activity away from the ski slope.
The wider Ruapehu region also offer golf courses in nearby Taihape and Taumarunui, giving visitors further opportunities to enjoy a round while exploring the region.
With several golf courses within driving distance of Ohakune, golfers can enjoy a game as part of their visit to the Ruapehu region.
Kayaking
The Ruapehu region offers a great variety of rivers and waterways for outdoor adventures, with activities ranging from peaceful canoe and kayak trips to exhilarating white water rafting.
Paddle along the Tongariro River and enjoy the surrounding scenery, explore the rocky boulder chutes of the Whanganui River, or take in the spectacular landscapes of Whanganui National Park. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, rafting the grade 5 rapids of the Rangitikei River offers an exciting challenge.
With options for different interests and levels of adventure, the region provides plenty of opportunities to experience its rivers and natural landscapes from the water.
Rafting
For an exciting way to experience the rivers of the Ruapehu region, rafting offers and unforgettable outdoor adventure. RNZ is a family run rafting business established in 1991, offering guided rafting experiences with a professional local guide team.
With purpose built rafting facilities and access to some of the region’s spectacular white water rivers, guests can enjoy an action packed experience while taking in the surrounding natural scenery. Their experienced guides can help make your rafting adventure both enjoyable and memorable.
Fishing
The rivers and waterways around the Ruapehu region offer excellent opportunities for freshwater and fly fishing. The clear, fast flowing rivers, fed by the mountain environment of Mt Ruapehu, provide a beautiful setting for anglers looking to enjoy the outdoors.
The region is well known for trout fishing, with the Tongariro River and other local waterways offering opportunities for experienced anglers and those wanting to discover the area’s fishing for the first time.
Hunting
The Department of Conservation manages a number of hunting areas throughout the Ruapehu and Tongariro regions, including Tongariro national Park, Whanganui National Park, Kaimanawa Forest Park, Erua Forest and the Lake Taupo Lakeshore Reserve.
Many of these areas are within an hour’s drive of Ohakune, providing access to a wide range of backcountry and forest environments. the region’s extensive network of roads and tracks also provides access to a variety of hunting areas.
Quad Biking
Ruapehu Adventure Rides offers guided adventures on quad bikes an LUV buggies, providing an exciting way to explore the landscapes around Ohakune. Choose from shorter rides of around 30 minutes, ideal for a relaxed introduction to the experience, through to full day adventures exploring native bush and taking in spectacular views of the surrounding rivers and mountains.
With a range of guided rides available, quad biking is a great option for visitors looking to experience the Ruapehu region from a different perspective.