Our guide on what to do in Ohakune
Ohakune provides the perfect base for some seriously awesome adventures. You’ll find this lively yet chilled out town on the southern foothills of the island’s largest active volcano, Mt Ruapehu.
Ohakune During Winter Season
The area absolutely hums come the winter season, whether you’re wanting to play in the snow, cosy up with a coffee at NZ’s highest cafe (trust us the views are breath-taking!), enjoy a couple of mulled wines fireside, try staying in a Yurt, Mardi-Gras in June, or soak weary muscles at the geothermal springs – Ohakune has it all.
Ohakune During Summer Season
During summer it is a hive of outdoor activities. Here you can enjoy hikes, bike rides, canoe trips, horse trekking and mountain biking! This picturesque ‘carrot capital’ has something for everyone – families, snow-shredders, nature enthusiasts and romantics. We’ve rounded up some of the best Ohakune activities! View our Ohakune Baches here. Bringing a pet? – Pet-friendly holiday homes are available too!
See our favourite things to do in Ohakune…
Gateway to The Tongariro Crossing
Found in the Tongariro National Park is the world-renowned Tongariro Crossing – often described as one of New Zealand’s best one-day hikes.
You’ll traverse 19.4km of spectacular volcanic alpine terrain, complete with craters, scoria, lava flows, mountain springs and of course the breath-taking emerald lakes which contrast splendidly with the fiery red crater.
The crossing has had it’s moments of fame, including Mt Ngauruhoe aka Mt Doom of Mordor in the Lord of the Rings. There is a convenient shuttle from Ohakune to Tongariro Crossing. View the timetable and further information by clicking here.
Ski, snowboard or sled
Ohakune really comes into its own during the winter months. Thanks to Turoa Ski Field located just 25 minutes drive away and Whakapapa reachable within an hours drive from the town centre, the town is well known as being a humming ski destination.
Turoa ski field is located on the south-western slopes of Mt Ruapehu and has the longest vertical run in New Zealand – a magnificent 722m of vertical descent!
With runs suitable for beginners, intermediate as well as black and black diamond runs – everyone can get amongst the mountain fun! You’ll also find the Alpine Café and Bar ideal for a hot cup of coffee or a cold beer.
Happy Valley is located on the Whakapapa ski field and provides a brilliant playground for families who are seeking their first snow experience, or are eager to practice.
Featuring a dedicated area well away from the main action, the little ones are safe to toboggan and play in the snow to their heart’s content. Find out all you need to know about the slopes, passes and rentals here!
Tokaanu Thermal Pools
After traversing the crossing or hitting the slopes what could be better than soaking weary muscles in the mineral waters of Tokaanu Thermal Pools! Located in the tiny township of Tokaanu, just a few kilometres from Turangi is where you’ll find this natural thermal wonder.
Splash about in the public pool with the kids, or opt for a private pool at night – gazing up to a canvas of stars above you and even a flutter of snow if you’re lucky!
While you’re there be sure to explore the rest of the grounds, by embarking on a short walk to see bubbling mud pots and steaming mineral pools set amongst native bush. For prices and opening hours check out their website here.
Vertigo Adventure Centre
Patrick Johnson, Owner of C&H Essentials recommends to check out Vertigo Climbing Wall:
It’s no surprise that Ohakune is a good place to do some climbing given the surrounding mountains.
Vertigo Climbing offers many walls, the tallest of which is 10 metres. This is a great location to take the kids to expose them to climbing in a controlled environment.
The staff’s warmth is a constant feature in the reviews, and as a bonus, you receive a wonderful all-around exercise. To tell you the truth, everything that happened to me here was insane.
Walk or Cycle the Old Coach Road
Set out on an adventure by foot or on a bike to experience a dose of New Zealand’s rail heritage via an old coach road.
“If you love to bike, you must check out the Old Coach Road cycle trail. This incredible nine-mile journey takes you from Horopito to the Junction end of Ohakune Township.
In addition to being beautiful, this trail is the same trail that early pioneers traversed. Within the gorgeous forest, you’ll come across railway relics, interesting viaducts, and fascinating tunnels. If you don’t bike, but are interested, this trail can also be done on foot.” — Michael Bell CEO of Manukora
The road was originally used by horse-drawn carriage to transport passengers and goods. Nowadays, you can enjoy a spectacularly scenic journey through native forest with beautiful vantage point views of the district that will have you discovering tunnels, railway relics and viaducts along the way.
Allow around 5 hours for the walk to include a laid back lunch, or about 2-3 hours by bike. A good way to plan the trip is to take a shuttle from Ohakune to Horopito (just a short 10 minute drive away) and then walk or cycle back into the town.
Mountain Biking in Ohakune
If you’re a lover of mountain biking, a trip to Ohakune will allow you to challenge yourself on some of the best trails in the world. It’s quickly becoming one of the most sought-after mountain riding locations in the whole country.
If you’re looking to get started mountain biking, Mountain Bike Station is a fantastic starting point since they provide bike rentals, shuttle services, and tours of some of the greatest trails in the area.
“The ‘Mountains to Sea’ trek is the most famous, and for good reason: it spans three to five days and passes through some of the region’s most stunning landscapes. I have to say that I had a great time participating in this wild and exciting activity.” — Mathew Bowley, Marketing Manager at Solmar Villas
Whanganui River Adventures
The Whanganui National Park is home to New Zealand’s longest navigable waterway rich in Maori and European history – the mystical Whanganui River. Reached from Ohakune thanks to the canoe hire operators and shuttle services in town, one can make like the explorers did and experience undisturbed native wilderness – making you feel as if you have stepped back in time.
Gliding downstream, you’ll paddle past waterfalls, steep-sided canyons, a few rapids, farmland and thick native forest – taking you far beyond the clutches of the modern civilisation we’re accustomed to.
Enjoy the eery stillness of your surrounds and the sounds of the abundant birdlife. There are numerous tour durations to choose from when planning your adventure.
“I spent a couple of months travelling NZ and visited Ohakune.
One thing I would recommend as the best thing to do is to take a canoe or kayak out on the Whanganui River. It’s New Zealand’s third longest river and offers a really cool experience, whether you go out for a couple of hours or take a full tour guide.
If you go down the tour guide route, you get the option of doing a 3 or 5-day journey. The great thing about this experience is you get a nice relaxing time on the water through dense jungle rivers but then you also get the added adrenaline of the rapids. It’s a great way to experience a rural and authentic activity in New Zealand.” — Chad Wyatt from Romin Nomads
Kakahi Glowworms
Ever seen New Zealand’s strange little creatures that light up caves, tunnels and rain forests after dark? They’re definitely worth checking out!
One of the more unique insects found in New Zealand’s fauna, they occur throughout the country and literally ‘glow’ after dark, creating a beautiful spectacle.
Take a visit to the Kakahi glowworms for an utterly unique (and free!) attraction. The glow worms are located approximately a 20-minute drive from Taumarunui Holiday Park.
Forgotten World Adventures
Fancy learning and sharing in the stories and unique history of New Zealand’s past… whilst whizzing down the Whanganui River on a jet boat or via a rail cart?
Forgotten World Adventure’s is just the ticket! Sit back in a motorised rail cart and travel in comfort along a decommissioned railway line over bridges and rivers, into townships that time forgot and through tunnels.
If you’re more of a thrill seeker, jump aboard the jet boat and fly along the upper reaches of the spectacular Whanganui River. There are numerous tours available to choose from depending on the time you have available.
National Army Museum
Be inspired by the stories of loyalty, courage and comradeship, honour the sacrifices and learn of the campaigns at New Zealand’s most comprehensive Army Museum. Immerse yourself in the collection of military memorabilia, exhibits and public research material.
Explore via Horse Trek
If you love animals and the great outdoors, embarking on a horse trek into the stunning scenery of Ruapehu will be a memorable experience for years to come. Whatever your experience, there is a ride to fit everyone’s needs!
If your looking for an international horse trip, make sure you check out Portugal By Horse. They offer incredible holiday homes in the Portugal region.
Trout fishing
Ruapehu and the surrounding area boast world-class wilderness fishing. The crystal clear waters flowing through remote native bush have anglers returning year after year, allowing one to really escape from it all. The area offers angling of all types, from trophy lake fishing in Lake Otamangakau to sight fishing for large trout in smaller streams and rivers.
“One of my favourite moments from my trip to Ohakune was trout fishing. Ruapehu and the surrounding areas boast top-class wilderness fishing.
The crystal clear waters flowing through remote native bush truly allow one to escape from it all. The area offers angling of all types, from trophy lake fishing in Lake Otamangakau to sight fishing for large trout in different streams and rivers.” — Kevin MRC
The fly-fishing season runs from 1st October through to May, though selected public areas such as the Ruatiti Domain (Manganui-o-teao river) and parts of the Mangawhero River are open year round. Most spawning rivers are closed between fly-fishing seasons.
Expect to find Brown and Rainbow Trout, which are abundant in the Ruapehu region – the average size starting from 1.5 to 2.5kgs.
With secluded locations and trophy potential, Ohakune and its surrounds lure in even the most seasoned fishermen! For more information including access, season and licence requirements, check out this guide.
If your looking for a website that covers everything to do with trout fly fishing, we highly recommend Trout Brumming.
Exploring The Junction
Head to The Junction to experience clubs and bars that come alive during the winter months and sample some of the delicious cuisines on offer!
“One thing I enjoyed a lot during my time in Ohakune was exploring the junction. The Junction has several clubs and bars with incredible food and awesome drinks.” — Charlie Southall from Dragonfly
The “apres-ski” vibe is best experienced in winter. You can get food from Kings bar or a pizza from La Pizzeria which are accessible throughout the year.
To reach there, there are two streets to choose from. The most scenic route is a walk along the Mangawhero River Walk which is a 30 minutes walk one way.
Picnic at the Carrot Adventure Park
Bonnie Whitfield from Family Destinations Guide suggests visiting the Carrot Adventure Park for a family picnic with a view:
The carrot park is located in the heart of the snowy mountains of New Zealand and has an amazing view of Mt Ruapehu.
The best part about this place is that it offers various activities for everyone in your family. If you’re planning on going there for a picnic, then make sure you bring your own food as there are no restaurants nearby.
Ohakune Carrot
You simply cannot go to Ohakune without visiting the infamous carrot statue! Be sure to stop by and get a photo.
Looking for more inspiration? View our range of Ohakune accommodation to set you up perfectly to explore this exciting area.
View our other “things to do” blog posts:
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