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Favorite thing: This great little viewing spot gave us a better chance to see where we would be trekking the next day. In the photo you see Mt Tongariro on the left and the conical shape of Mt Ngauruhoe. Mt Ruapehu is right of the photo, but not in the photo.
To find this view, take Hwy 47 towards National Park from Turangi and about 10kms from the intersection with Hwy 46, you find two signs on the right side, reading "Taurewa Dropshaft and Okupata Dropshaft". These are in relation to the hydro electricity scheme, but there is a layby there where you can park and see this view.
Fondest memory: Remembering this is the volcanic plateau and is elevated somewhat in altitude, the plantlife is indicative of this. The colours of the tussock and heathers and other plants just is so beautiful I wanted to stay here forever. But of course on a nice day it's nice, but often the weather is so crud here. We were very fortunate.
Updated Mar 6, 2005
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Favorite thing: To get this view of Mount Tongariro, we deviated slightly down a tiny road off the highway. Let me share with you that spot! Head South from Taupo, and at Turangi, follow the signs to National park, which take you onto Hwy 47. After you have driven over the saddle and see Lake Rotoaira in front of you, and you descend down, you come to a small road on the left with signs saying "Opataka Historic Place - Site of two Maori dwellings". Take this small road and you drive on past the Maori dwellings until you come to the Hydro gates. Drive out on the left towards the lake and stop at the end of that track. You get the view in this photo from that point. It's not seen from the highway, unimpeded.
Fondest memory: This is my favourite view of Tongariro, summit 1967m.
From here the other mountains are obscured, but this is a great view.
Written Mar 6, 2005
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To get this view of Mount Tongariro, we deviated slightly down a tiny road off the highway. Let me share with you that spot! Head South from Taupo, and at...
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ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE We drove for 3 hours to get to this destination, from where I live. The day before the trek, we were blessed with the most amazingly clear and blue sky views. Here you......
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