New Zealand North Island Itinerary, Part 3

(5 miles)

Some absolutely amazing geothermal formations here.

[ http://www.waimangu.co.nz ]

(7.3 miles)

One of the larger, busier geothermal parks. The November-March hours are 8:30am-6:00pm, last admission 4:45pm.

[ http://www.waiotapu.co.nz ]

(34 miles)

A relatively flat, straight ride on a relatively calm road, all the way to the Barcelona Motel in Taupo. Watch for the overpass as you approach town – traffic might compel you to route around it.

[ http://www.barcelonamotel.co.nz ]

An easy walk to the kayak depot, for a river-run down the Waikato River, followed by a multi-hour kayaking session along the shores of Lake Taupo.

[ http://www.canoeandkayak.co.nz/ … ]

(36.2 miles)

A fairly easy clockwise ride around the lake, except for one steep hill section near the beginning. Might want to bypass the highway there via Rotongaio Road. The shoulder is narrow in a couple sections, then widens out.

[ http://oasismotel.co.nz ]

Shuttle service from Tokaanu/Turangi provided by Turangi Alpine Crossing. Departure times are 6:00am and 7:30am. Cost: $30 one way per person.

[ http://turangirentals.co.nz/ … ]

(12 miles)

The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. 12 miles, with a gentle downhill slope for a good portion of it.

[ http://www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz/ … ]

If we’re feeling particularly ambitious, we can ascend the optional trail up Mt Ngauruhoe. It’s an additional 2000 feet – almost doubling the ascent of the hike. No easy task.

[ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Ngauruhoe ]

The latest return shuttle departs at 5:00pm. Cost: $30 per person one way. An additional $50 charge will apply for a later pickup.

(38 miles)

This will be a rough riding day, primarily because of the steady ascent. We’ll be going up 2500 feet.

[ http://www.the-park.co.nz ]