Settle into a new rhythm in Ruapehu this spring. Warmer days and shorter nights mean there’s time to linger a bit longer and breathe a bit deeper, whether it’s mountainside or riverside. Wind your way along the aptly named Adventure Highway to explore Ruapehu’s cosy mountain towns, charming alpine villages, and the hidden gems to savour in between. Here are five immersive experiences to discover in Ruapehu this season.
Guided canoe journeys on the Whanganui River
Slow, immersive travel at its best, it’s a beautiful time to explore the magnificence and magnitude of the Whanganui River. As the world’s first river to be recognised as a living entity with legal rights, there is a sense of divinity as you journey along by canoe or kayak, disconnected from the outside world but connected to moments that matter. With a local guide helping you navigate your way down NZ’s longest navigable waterway, cultural guided river journeys offer a deeper experience into a remote wilderness as you learn about the history and stories of the local iwi who call this sacred place home. Rongoa (Māori traditional healing) and Maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) experiences are also available for seekers of enriching, cultural elements.
With world-class trails for walking and cycling around every corner, what better way to soak up the splendour of the National Park Village than by foot or by bike. Nature and bird lovers will delight in the Erua Conservation Area’s Tupapakurua Falls Track which offers a stunning, easy 1 km walk to the Taranaki Lookout. The lush native bush and views of Mt Taranaki are spectacular on a clear day. Don’t be surprised if you find a bucket or two filled with gravel along the track. A community initiative which was launched back in 2005, offers visitors the opportunity to give back to the track by transporting gravel for track maintenance. For those keen to go pedal powered, hop on a bike to ride Fishers Track – a short and easy, entry-level backcountry ride. Both options are accessible up Fishers Road in National Park Village. Or you can also opt to ride Marton Sash and Door, an 18km, grade 3 loop track which on average takes about two hours to complete and takes you back in time along the main trunk line with tramway relics, log bridges and beautiful bush.
Ohakune Hot Tubs
Immerse yourself in the elements and soak up the crisp alpine air and dark starry nights at the newly opened Ohakune Hot Tubs. The perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring, you can book these open-air, wood fired hot tubs for private, one-hour sessions Wednesday through to Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm. Nestled in NZ’s mountain town Ohakune, you can enjoy this new bathing experience day or night.
A murder mystery party at Snowy Waters Lodge combined with half day horse trekking at Blue Duck Station sure makes for a one-of-a-kind, two-nights wellness getaway to Ruapehu. Situated within five acres of garden surrounds, Snowy Waters Lodge is a beautifully restored Old Nurses Home & Doctors Residence located just 10 minutes from Ohakune. Indulge in an all you can eat gourmet pizzas, riverside strolls, and spa pool sessions with gorgeous mountain views. Venture to award-winning Blue Duck Station on day two to explore this outdoor enthusiast’s playground and learn about the station’s mission to conserve its endangered wildlife and care for its environment. Take in breath-taking beauty as you delve into what feels like NZ’s last frontier and top it all off with a hearty brunch at Blue Duck Station Café. Minimum 10 people for bookings so get your favourite people together and experience these two fantastic destinations with friends or family.
As the spring season arrives, a visit to the four, uniquely enchanting Forgotten World Gardens along and around the Forgotten World Highway (State Highway 43) is a definite must-do in Ruapehu. Visit Bradley’s Garden, an award-winning 5-star garden of National Significance with its magnificent gardens as well as a mischievous mini-putt golf course and Devonshire tea in the beautiful gazebo. Nearby, the gorgeous Omaka Lodge is home to over 3 acres of stunning, landscaped gardens with themed areas inviting visitors to explore The Champagne Lawn, The Water Garden, The Wedding Garden and The Secret Garden. To Whenua, in Te Reo Māori means return to the land. After extensive replanting and renovations, this hidden gem has come to its own with a magical mix of native and exotic plants throughout the intimate, inviting spaces which include a bog garden and a hosta garden. Lauren’s Lavender Farm is home to over 8,000 lavender plants and is a spectacular sight to behold tucked away in rural countryside, perched above the Whanganui River. With a fantastic café and shop on-site, take your time to explore this natural wonderland and take home a lovely souvenir or two – a range of beautiful lavender products made from the lavender flowers, all harvested by hand.
Find special deals and packages to book your spring getaway at www.visitruapehu.com