Location: Turangi
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10 Tours in Turangi That You Shouldn't Miss
Turangi is a small town on the west bank of the Tongariro River, 50 kilometres south-west of Taupo on the North Island Volcanic Plateau of New Zealand. It was built to accommodate the workers associated with the Tongariro hydro-electric power development project and their families. The town was designed to remain as a small servicing centre for the exotic forest plantations south of Lake Taupo and for tourists. It is well known for its trout fishing and calls itself "The trout fishing capital of the world". The major Māori hapu (tribe) of the Turangi area is Ngati Turangitukua.
Restaurants in Turangi
1. 2-Hour Tongariro River Family Rafting Excursion in Turangi
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 106 reviews
Enjoy your first taste of river rafting on this leisurely 2-hour tour from Turangi. The ideal choice for families and first-time rafters, you'll paddle downstream, admire stunning views along the Tongariro River, and navigate some gentle rapids.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off Turangi only (if option selected), All equipment and instruction, Coffee, tea, and snacks
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By worldwide2021
We all had a blast on this trip. We felt so well looked after even with a drink and chocolate fish on the family trip. Kids loved the rapids and the challenge to stand up! Photos are great! Hot soup on arrival back so well thought out and close by for those who needed the toilet! So much fun thank you!
2. Tongariro River Family Fun White Water Rafting from Turangi
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 103 reviews
Splash, crash and laugh with the best 3-hour adventure for families with younger children. Professionally guided and completely outfitted, spend up to 1.75-hours on the river rafting through 20-plus exciting but safe grade two rapids. Visit the National Trout Centre and feed the fish, enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate, swim in the pools and experience the beautiful Tongariro River. Back at base enjoy a hot shower followed by complimentary cold refreshments and a river dog (hot dog) while watching your trips photo's.
Inclusions: Professional "Kiwi" River Guide, Transport to and from the river, Visit to the National Trout Centre, On River Hot Chocolate and Chocolate, Optional Cliff Jump, Hot Showers, Post trip cold Beer/Soda or Hot Mulled Wine, Post trip River Dog (Hot Dog)
Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off
Reviewed By MichaelaRJ
This is a seriously slick operation! Our whole family ranging in age from 10 to 70 went rafting on Saturday and LOVED every moment. Gorgeous scenery, heaps of fun rapids, professional fun guides and awesome touches with the hot chocolate and choccy fish on the river and the beer and hot dog to finish. We couldn’t recommend Rafting New Zealand highly enough! We’ll be back and will tell everyone we know to come too. Thanks so much guys for making this a memorable celebration
3. Big Splash COMBO Bungy Jump and Rafting
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
The Big Splash is about being WET in the summer and COOL in the winter, by doing a wicked combination of bungy jumping and rafting. With two locally owned and operated companies, we offer an action-packed day, that's on the wild side!
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected), All equipment and instruction, Hot Soup (winter) Deli style Lunch (summer) at rafting, Lunch, Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: N/A
Reviewed By Donnapostlewaight
My 11 year old daughter and I had the best time and our guides were fantastic. The weather was great and with all the clothes we had on, only our hands were cold but the hot soup and bread at the end took care of that. Definitely recommend jumping into the river from the big rock:)
4. Turangi Whakapapa Round Trip Transfers
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Let's go to the heart of the Tongariro National Park Whakapapa Ski fields with Backyard Tours offering a round trip transfer from Turangi to have FUN in the SNOW. Book NOW!
Inclusions: Commentary of local stories and knowledge along journey., Group Photography
Exclusions: Bring your own Snow equipment or arrange hire at least 48 hours before your departure., Cafe styles dine in available up Whakapapa Ski Fields
Reviewed By jettnova
From the get go, these guys excelled. Friendly, upfront and super easy to work with. Shuttle was on time, driver was great and did a Maori blessing before we took off. Highly recommend them! Good work guys, thank you!
5. Tongariro White Water Rafting from Taupo and Turangi
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 332 reviews
The Tongariro white water is regarded as one of New Zealand's best half-day white water rafting adventures. Raft over 50 exciting rapids, through a beautiful volcanic gorge. Explore a hidden waterfall (jump optional, weather permitting) and enjoy some hot chocolate and chocolate candy on the river. Afterwards, refuel with your complimentary River Dog (hot dog) and cold beer/soda or hot mulled wine. Trips depart daily and year round, complimentary pickup from Taupo is available.
Inclusions: Hotel pick-up (selected hotels only), Light refreshments, Professional local guide, Rafting and safety equipment, Complimentary post-trip river dog (hot dog), Post-trip cold beer/soda or hot mulled wine
Exclusions: Souvenir photos, Food and drink not listed in itinerary
Reviewed By drchebbi
We had a great first ever rapids rafting experience. Luke is the boss! Looked after us from start to finish. We did the grade 2 course about 8km and 20 rapids. It was perfect from start to finish. The centre is very well laid out with great changing facilities and a super cafe/shop. Our 6 yr old enjoyed it so much she can’t wait to come back. Highlights included getting only a bit wet, not falling out (always listen to the coach, Luke in our case), and plenty of native birds and some geology! Would definitely recommend. We will return for the grade 3!
6. Tongariro River White Water Rafting Adventure
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 176 reviews
Rated by the Lonely Planet as 1 of 10 unmissable Aquatic New Zealand adventures in 2015 (The only rafting trip in the list). This half-day Tongariro River journey is truly a fantastic rafting adventure. The rapids are Grade Three, which makes this an ideal adventure for expert and first-time rafters alike. In 2.5 hours you navigate over 60 roller coaster rapids with an expert guide at the helm. A large part the top section of this trip can only be accessed by raft or kayak so you'll see plenty of spectacular unspoiled wilderness.
Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Lunch, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (only for 12.00pm and 2.00pm trips if option selected), Rafting and safety equipment, Wetsuit, boots, fleece jacket, spray jacket, helmet and gloves when required., Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Reviewed By Donnapostlewaight
My 11 year old daughter and I had the best time and our guides were fantastic. The weather was great and with all the clothes we had on, only our hands were cold but the hot soup and bread at the end took care of that. Definitely recommend jumping into the river from the big rock:)
7. Tongariro Crossing Return Transfer from Turangi
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 38 reviews
Welcome to the heart of Tongariro National Park amongst our sacred Volcanic Mountains Pihanga, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu like nowhere else in the World. On Journey enjoy our learnings about Manaakitanga – caring & safety of visitors and Kaitiakitanga – guardianship to preserving life. Locals of Maōri descent born and raised in Turangi Tongariro providing a niche transport service to Aotearoa New Zealand’s known Best one day adventure hike to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with experienced local transport services. Highly recommended from Manuhiri - Visitor’s ensured safety from our destination Turangi Taupō, World famously known for trout fishing, hiking, biking, river rafting, relaxing walks, geothermal hot pools, stays and a quint friendly environment. Shuttles & transfers are self-guided and naturally has our Maōri blessings, FREE safety photography, FREE use of walking poles, and a FREE cold drink at the END. Department of Conservation Transport Concessionaire Approved.
Inclusions: Transport transfer round trip from Turangi, Local friendly commentary, Naturally our local ‘Maōri blessings’ and acknowledgements, Free photography available from the social media pages, Free usage of walking poles, Free celebratory cold drink at the end
Exclusions: Hiking guide, Meals and drinks, Boots or Clothing
Reviewed By G5479RHpetert
Thank you Backyard Tours for your amazing shuttle service getting us to and from The Tongariro Crossing. You made it very easy for us and it was good to see you waiting at the end with a cold beer in your hand. Yours will be the first business I recommend to friends and family if any of them head that way.
8. Premium Tongariro Alpine Crossing Guided Trek
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 50 reviews
Experience the majestic Tongariro National Park and feel the crisp mountain air as you follow your expert guide across the Tongariro Alpine Crossing for a view of the volcanic landscape during this 8-hour trek. Soak in the snowy white expanse in winter or the lush, blooming beauty during summer on your 19km hike. Learn about the secrets and history of the landscape around you. Travel through volcanic craters, mountain springs, and vivid emerald lakes - natural wonders that leave you inspired and breathless. Notice the gradual change in flora as you climb higher in altitude. Witness the grandeur of Mount Ngauruhoe, which lies between Mount Tongariro, Mount Ruapehu. Your guides are well informed and keep you safe by constantly assessing the weather and track conditions, timing for your personalised pick-up, and other little details to maximise your enjoyment. Where possible, we take our clients away from the masses while making sure that the popular sights are still experienced.
Inclusions: Professional and qualified guide/s, All mountain equipment required (including crampons and ice axes during winter), Transport between the Adrift Tongariro base (53 Carroll St, National Park Village) and the activity, Lunch until 31 March 2021, purchase as additional from 01 April 2021 onward, Footwear and clothing to supplement up to a NZD40 free allowance.
Exclusions: Beverages, bottled water, or snacks, Gratuities, Transport from Taupo, Turangi, Ohakune, National Park & Whakapapa Villages available at a surcharge, from 01 April 2021 onwards
Reviewed By rmtremble
What stunning day walking the Tongariro Crossing with Hiro as our guide. Professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to spend the day with. We would highly recommend Adrift.
9. Northern Explorer Journey - Auckland to Wellington by Train
Overall Ratings
4.4 based on 26 reviews
New Zealand's longest running passenger service, the Northern Explorer is a long distance scenic train service running between Auckland and Wellington. Experience the extremes of New Zealand's scenery, from the fertile farmlands of Waikato to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the sparkling Kapiti Coast.
Inclusions: One Way Rail Journey, GPS triggered audio commentary, All taxes, fees and handling charges
Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and Drinks (available to purchase), Hotel pickup and drop-off, Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
Reviewed By KiwiKerry53
On the bucket list for a while, the only upside of Covid-19 is that we are doing those things in our backyard that were on hold for a time when we may not be as fit as we are now! At a guess I would say the explorer was somewhere around 40-50% capacity. The upshot of that for travellers was that a lot of couples had the 4 seater tables to themselves. Travelling from Wellington, there was no apparent requirement to wear masks - no signage or requests and most people didn't. The dining carriage is stocked with Wishbone refreshment, so sandwiches, salads and prepackaged meals that could be heated. Wine and beer was very reasonably priced compared to bars. The scenery was stunning from start to finish. We were lucky enough to have the viewing car immediately behind us and the dining car immediately at the front, so life was good. I found the last 2-3 hours a struggle. No scenery, industrial areas on the outskirts of Auckland - I have never seen so many containers in my life. Over the course of the day we were an hour behind schedule and arrival in Auckland was very welcome. There is a well organised luggage drop off/pick up that felt very safe. It is important to note that NZ was at it's lowest alert level, so minimal Covid requirements are in place. All staff on the explorer work masks at all times. We also did the return trip and I think the Auckland to Wellington journey is easier - you have nice scenery coming into Wellington, having got the boring stuff out the way at the beginning of the journey.
10. Private Sunrise Tongariro Alpine Crossing Guided Walk
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 4 reviews
With the Milky Way at your fingertips and shooting stars streaming in the clarity that only the pre-dawn can achieve, come and see the sunrise at Red Crater and enjoy breakfast alfresco. Sunrise tours route taken often varies between the standard route to the standard route in reverse, and sometimes a route that takes us back to the start. The route picked is dependent on weather conditions time of year and your needs and ability. The sunrise route is the same route as the daytime tour but with one obvious exception ... NO CROWDS!
Inclusions: Professional guide, All mountain equipment required (including crampons and ice axes during winter), Transport between the Adrift Tongariro base and the activity, Breakfast, All clothing and footwear hire
Exclusions: Drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By rmtremble
What stunning day walking the Tongariro Crossing with Hiro as our guide. Professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to spend the day with. We would highly recommend Adrift.
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