- Where to find: Manawatu-Wanganui 4691, New Zealand;
- Phone: +64 7-892 3729;
- Website: doc.govt.nz
Founded back in 1894, Tongariro National Park today is not only the property of New Zealand . Just over twenty years ago, in 1993, he was the first of the world's landscapes to be classified as cultural, was inscribed on the World Heritage List.
The park occupies a vast territory of more than 75 thousand hectares and the main objects in it are three mountains sacred to the local Maori tribe.
Landscapes for movies
Today Tongariro landscapes are known in many parts of the Earth - and all thanks to director P. Jackson, who shot in these places the trilogy "The Lord of the Rings" based on the books of J. Tolkien. In particular, it was the local natural attractions that the mysterious and dangerous Misty Mountains, wild plains and the monumental, mountain-filled Orodruin, played in the imagination of the cult British writer, played "the role".
Volcanoes and lakes
Park Tongariro is known primarily for its three active volcanoes: Ngauroruho, Ruapehu and Tongariro.
It is in close proximity to each other. The highest is Ruapehu - it rushes to a height of 2797 meters. Translated from the language of the Maori tribe, the name of this periodically erupting mountain lava means a roaring chasm.
It is interesting that when the activity of the volcano is reduced, a lake is formed in the crater, quite warm, so that you can swim in it - tourists often take advantage of this opportunity. After all, where else can you imagine a chance to swim in a real volcano?
However, it is worth noting that in recent years, the acidity of water has increased significantly, and therefore such bathing is a dubious pleasure. Not to mention the fact that the water temperature at any time can increase dramatically.
Near the volcanoes there are beautiful, unspoilt lakes, fascinating with the unusual color of water. By the way, it was she who gave the names to these water objects - Emerald and Blue Lakes.
The sacred land of Maori
The lands of the National Park are sacred to the Maori tribe. There has always been a strict ban on cutting down trees, hunting and fishing.
Entertainment and attractions
For tourists created a variety of entertainment. For example, laid trails for hikes. A special mention deserves the route Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but it is recommended for passage only in good, clear weather.
Many other trails have been laid, during which tourists can enjoy beautiful views, clear lakes and other natural attractions.
Flora and fauna
The flora and fauna of the park is really unique. If we talk about trees, then this is not only the pine species familiar to Europeans, but also kahikatea, pahautea, kamakhi.
Mentioned also deserve the rare birds that live here - these are the parrots kea, thui. On Earth they can only be found in Tongariro.
How to get there?
Tongariro in New Zealand attracts both tourists and local residents, to which its most interesting nature contributes. The park is located almost in the middle between the capital of the country Wellington and Auckland .
But it's easier to get to it from Auckland - there go regular buses. You can also rent a car. You need to go on the highway State Highway 1. The road will take up to 3.5-4 hours.
| | | |
| | | |
