Tongariro Northern Circuit

The volcanic one: three to four days through an active volcanic area of lava flows and gravel fields, past the Emerald Lakes, which fill old explosion pits. For 2026/27 it runs 35.5 km from Mangatepopo Carpark to Whakapapa Village, as the section between them is closed after the 2025 Tongariro fire, so arrange a shuttle. DOC says both that it is not currently operating as a Great Walk while Oturere Hut is replaced and that the Great Walk will run in 2026/27, so confirm before booking. It shares its best-known stretch with the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and a circuit hut or campsite booking covers that section. Outside the Great Walk season, from 1 May to 22 October, it is a winter alpine trip needing special skills and avalanche gear.