How to get to Ruapehu
Ruapehu is located in the North Island of New Zealand in an area known as the Central Plateau, a volcanic region featuring the three active peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu and is on the southern boundary of the Tongariro World Heritage National Park.
SH49 runs from the southern end starting at Waiouru, with SH4 running through the district finishing north of Taumarunui.
Self drive
The drive to the Ruapehu District from any direction offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and National Parks and it is well worth taking your time getting here and stopping to appreciate the scenery from some of the many viewpoints en route.
Recommended Routes:
From Auckland
• SH1 to Ngaruawahia
• SH39 to Otorohanga
• SH3 to SH4 turnoff after Te Kuiti
• SH4 running through Taumarunui, Owhango, Raurimu and Waimarino.
• SH4 to SH49 turnoff after Horopito
• SH49 to Ohakune through to Waiouru
From Wellington
• SH1 to Waiouru
• SH49 to Ohakune
• SH4 through Waimarino, Raurimu, Owhango and Taumarunui.
These directions are intended as a guide only. We recommend using AA or Maps to plan your trip.
Rail
The Northern Explorer
The Northern Explorer is Tranzscenic’s North Island service travelling between Wellington and Auckland through some of the most picturesque landscapes of the North Island, stopping at Palmerston North, Ohakune, Waimarino and Hamilton.
The Northern Explorer service is a great way to get to the district for a weekend break. Transport to and from your accommodation will need to be arranged prior to your visit.
Auckland: The Northern Explorer runs southbound from Auckland on Monday, Thursday and Saturday
Wellington: The Northern Explorer runs northbound from Wellington on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
Bus
InterCity operates a daily buses.
Buses leave Auckland from the Sky City bus terminal at 102 Hobson Street, Auckland Central.
Buses can also be taken to Taupō leaving from Waiouru and to Palmerston North, Whanganui & Wellington.
See isite@ruapehudc.govt.nz for bookings.
