Tongariro Crossing (05 January 2008)

The Tongariro Crossing is perhaps the best one day walk in New Zealand. I wanted to give it a go although at 18.5 km including 800m+ of climbing - it sounds like a challenge. The forecast was good, the daypack well stocked, we caught the bus to the start point and off we went. An hour later and we are about to start the climbing (up the saddle behind us).

The volcanic landscape was really impressive. Crossing the "South Crater". We kept our eyes open for Orcs - this is the land of Mordor!


Almost the highest point and a good view of Mt Ngauruhoe, or if you prefer - Mt Doom!

A steep descent which Lorena was not too happy with and then we arrived at the Emerald lakes.


The walk took us 7 and a quarter hours although we had to run at the end to catch the bus. Just made it! A good day.

Note for non-film buffs: Some of the Lord of the Rings movies was filmed not far from here.