| check-in time: 3:00 pmcheck-out time: 10:00 am. low-key rooms offer flat-screen tvs, minibars and limited free wi-fi, plus en suite bathrooms with heated floors. there's no air-conditioning. in a stately 1929 building within tongariro national park, this upscale hotel is 7 km from the whakapapa skifield and 16 km from the tongariro alpine crossing trailhead. there's also an indoor plunge pool, a sauna and a gym, plus a golf course. amenities include an elegant pacific rim restaurant, a casual cafe, and a swanky lounge/bar with mountain views, a fireplace and afternoon high tea service. room service is available 24/7. suites add living areas; some have fireplaces and whirlpool baths
Taupo Airport 1 hr 29
Taranaki Falls (2 min)
65-ft. waterfall running over volcanic cliffs into a pool of water, reachable by a 4-mi. trail. Tongariro National Park (2 min)
The 4th National Park in the world, this protected area is important for its culture and its nature. Tawhai Falls (Gollums Pool) (24 min)
Rocky forest cascade with a pool for swimming, used as a filming location for “Lord of the Rings.” Sky Waka Gondola (9 min) Silica Rapids (5 min) Whakapapanui walk at Tongariro National Park (23 min) Mount Tongariro (2 hr 45)
Compound volcano in Tongariro National Park & one of 3 peaks on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike. Ridge Walking Track (6 min) Tongariro Alpine Crossing (40 min) Whakapapa Nature Walk (7 min) Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre (3 min) Mount Ngauruhoe (40 min)
This active stratovolcano is well known among hikers & mountain climbers for its panoramic views. Turoa (1 hr 17)
Ski slopes for all abilities on the side of Mount Ruapehu, the highest mountain on the North Island. Whakapapa (10 min)
Ski area offering facilities for all levels, including an extensive beginners' area with a cafe. | 
