Our Mountainous Heart

The Highlights from Tongariro to Lake Taupō

Photography: Laura Smetsers

Adrift Tongariro + Alpine Chalets
adriftnz.co.nz

 

Experience the Tongariro Alpine Crossing this winter with Adrift Tongariro. Join a guided hike through dramatic alpine landscapes, then unwind with a two-night stay for two adults at Alpine Chalets, a warm, comfortable base on the edge of the park.

 

53 Carroll Street, Waimarino (National Park Village)
Instagram: adrifttongariro
bookings@adriftnz.co.nz

Mountain Heights Lodge
mountainheights.co.nz

 

Nestled on the edge of Tongariro National Park, Mountain Heights Lodge offers relaxed alpine charm with B&B rooms and self-contained units. Unwind in the spa pool, explore volcanic landscapes, and embrace year-round adventure – from ski fields to iconic hikes and cycle tracks.

 

4576 SH4, Waimarino
Facebook: mtheightslodge
mountainheights@xtra.co.nz

Tongariro Suites
tongarirosuites.co.nz

 

One of the Ruapehu Region’s highest-rated properties, set in a hectare of native landscaped gardens with views towards Mt Ruapehu, these four contemporary suites feature generous living areas, full bathrooms, and free-standing baths. It’s perfect for unwinding after the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or a day on the slopes. Enjoy the guest lounge with wood-burning fire, cedar hot tub, barbecue deck, and daily continental breakfast.

 

27 Hutiwai Road, Horopito
Midway between Ohakune and National Park Village
Instagram: tongarirosuitesnz

Te Horonuku Mountain Sports Club
tehoronuku.org.nz

 

At Te Horonuku, we’re more than just a place to stay — we’re a welcoming ski club on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. Families, solo skiers, boarders, and snow-lovers come together here for epic days on the mountain and warm, social nights at the lodge. Whether it’s your first season or your fifteenth, you’ll feel at home the moment you walk in. Join the club. Stay on the snow. Make memories that last a lifetime.

La Pizzeria Ohakune
lapizzeria.co.nz

 

La Pizzeria has been a local favourite in Ohakune for years. Whether you’ve just come down from Tūroa, spent the day exploring Tongariro National Park, or you’re a local stopping in for your usual, they serve fresh, quality pizza in a relaxed and welcoming setting. In winter, the doors are open to skiers and snowboarders looking for something warm and satisfying. In summer, it’s a casual stop for hikers, cyclists and road-trippers. Good food, friendly service, no fuss.

 

6 Thames Street, Ohakune
Instagram: lapizzeriaohakune

Rata Boutique Apartments
rataohakune.co.nz

 

Set in the heart of Ohakune, Rata Boutique Apartments offer beautifully appointed, contemporary accommodation with designer touches, private courtyards and hot tubs – an indulgent base for exploring Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park, and the region’s year-round adventures.

 

23 Clyde Street, Ohakune
Instagram: rata.ohakune
info@rataohakune.co.nz

Ohakune Hot Tubs
ohakunehottubs.co.nz

 

Escape to Ohakune this winter and experience the best of mountain life, from snow sports to soaking under the stars.

WIN a one-hour hot tub session for two at Ohakune Hot Tubs*; a one-night stay for two at Kings Ohakune*, mountain bike hire plus ski or snowboard gear for two from TCB Ski, Board & Bike*; and breakfast or lunch for two at Frank’s Café*. Head to the WIN page to enter.

 

*Standard T&C’s apply; dates subject to availability. Offer Valid for the Winter Ski Season 2026 Sunday to Thursday only.

tcb.nz   |   kingsohakune.co.nz   |   franksohakune.com

Craters of the Moon
cratersofthemoon.co.nz

 

Craters of the Moon is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most fascinating geothermal walks. Within the Taupō volcanic zone, this stunning environment features steaming fumaroles, mud pools, unique plant life and dramatic craters. Explore this one-hour walk along safe boardwalks and viewing platforms to experience a constantly changing natural environment.

WIN a free family pass by visiting cratersofthemoon.co.nz and entering your details. 

 

171 Karapiti Road, Wairakei, Taupō
Facebook: craters of the moon

No8 Restaurant & Bar

 

Nestled at the foot of Mount Ruapehu in the vibrant town of Ohakune, No8 Restaurant & Bar is a warm and welcoming dining destination that captures the true spirit of local hospitality. Proudly owned and operated by locals Teresa and Willow, No8 is a whānau-run establishment where community, connection, and great food come together. Blending modern New Zealand flavours with classic favourites, the restaurant offers a relaxed yet stylish setting perfect for both locals and visitors alike. With a focus on quality local ingredients, friendly service, and a laid-back atmosphere, No8 has quickly become a go-to spot to unwind, share a meal, and experience the best of Ohakune’s hospitality scene.

55 Clyde Street, Ohakune
Instagram: no8_ohakune
bookings@no8ohakune.co.nz

15 Taupahi Road,Tūrangi
thequarters.nz

The Quarters

 

More than just a place to stay — The Quarters is a boutique accommodation collective designed for couples, groups, and shared adventures in the heart of the Tongariro region. Set on the banks of the legendary Tongariro River, between the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park and the lakeside charm of Taupō, The Quarters places you perfectly between adventure and escape. Spend one day hiking alpine trails, skiing at Whakapapa, riding the Sky Waka Gondola, mountain biking forest tracks, or casting a line into world-famous trout waters, then the next exploring Taupō’s vibrant cafés, boutiques, lakefront dining, and geothermal attractions. With beautifully designed studios, apartments, a cottage, and full homes which feature cosy fireplaces for winter evenings, The Quarters is a warm, stylish base for couples, families, groups, and unforgettable shared adventures.

Braxmere Lodge, Tokaanu
braxmere.co.nz

 

Braxmere Lodge offers 10 self-contained lakeside apartments on the southern shores of Lake Taupō, minutes from Tūrangi. With a private boat ramp, direct lake access, and stunning views, it sits perfectly between world-class trout fishing on the Tongariro River, Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa Ski Field, and Tokaanu Hot Pools. An ideal year-round base for nature and adventure.

 

88 Waihi Road, Tokaanu
Facebook: braxmere

Hilton Lake Taupō
hilton.com/laketaupo

 

Escape to Hilton Lake Taupō this winter with our newly renovated rooms, designed for comfort and warmth. Enjoy our Puppy Playcation package with your furry companion, and savour seasonal dining at Bistro Lago. Located within easy driving distance to Whakapapa Ski Area, it’s the perfect base to unwind after a day on the slopes.

 

80-100 Napier Road, Taupō
Instagram: hiltonlaketaupo

Jimmy Coops Lakehouse
jimmycoops.co.nz

 

Perched right on the Taupō lakefront, Jimmy Coops Lakehouse is the home of Lakeman Brewing’s taproom. Here, they pour award-winning craft beers alongside a genuine paddock-to-plate burger experience. The beef is sourced directly from their own farm — the same place the brewery calls home — just 15 minutes down the road. It doesn’t get fresher than that.

 

10 Roberts Street, Taupō
Instagram: jimmycoopslakehouse

L’Arte Cafe & Gallery
larte.co.nz

 

L’Arté Café and Gallery is a must-visit destination when exploring Taupō. The kitchen team prepares fresh food on-site daily, offering a delicious selection of cabinet fare, handmade wholemeal bread, cakes, and slices. Set within a beautifully established garden filled with art, L’Arté features a truly unique gallery space, including an oversized outdoor mosaic “living room”. All ceramic flowers and designs are hand-built in the L’Arté studio, making each piece one of a kind. These exclusive creations are available only at L’Arté Gallery or on our website.

 

255 Mapara Road, Acacia Bay, Taupō
Instagram: larte_cafe_gallery

Taupōs Floatplane
tauposfloatplane.co.nz

 

Taupō’s Floatplane offers a range of flightseeing tours over Tongariro National Park, as well as the Volcanic Plateau, Lake Taupō, White Island/Whakaari, and the many sparkling lakes of Rotorua. Enjoy breathtaking vistas in a high-wing Cessna 206 Floatplane as well as the magical sensation of taking off from and landing on water. Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy this unique flying experience!

 

Redoubt Street, Taupō
Facebook: tauposfloatplane

The Cozy Corner
thecozycorner.co.nz

 

A favourite with locals, this award-winning cafe has a menu focused on whole, unprocessed ingredients with vibrant flavours and exceptional coffee. As a business committed to sustainability and community, The Cozy Corner offers plenty of dietary options and is fully licensed.

 

Suncourt Plaza, 19 Tamamutu Street, Taupō
Instagram: thecozycornertaupo

The Retreat
theretreat.co.nz

 

Escape to The Retreat this winter! A relaxed, lakeside haven on the shores of Lake Taupō, set among expansive park-like grounds with beautiful views, the comfortable chalets offer space to unwind. It’s perfect for couples, solo travellers, families, and groups. Heated indoor pool and spas available. Pets welcome.

Book with code VERVE26 and save 20% on stays from May–August 2026.

 

31 Rutherfurd Lane, Taupō
Instagram: the_retreat_taupo