Routes — Day 3 Waihohonu Hut to Whakapapa Village

We recommend you finish the hike at Whakapapa (and skip the last short section back to Mangatepopo).

This is an easy hiking day compared with the last two. You have time for a number of sidetrips.

Day 3 is not nearly as exciting as the last two. Of course you are as close as you are going to get to marbled Ruapehu. There are great views if the weather is clear.

Your day starts crossing the upper Waihohonu stream. Turn at the signposted junction towards Whakapapa.

There are a couple of sidetrips to consider:

• Ohinepango Springs (40 minutes return)
• Old Waihohonu Hut (5 minutes return)

Stop in at the old hut for sure. Drop your pack on the track & wander over — it is a welcome diversion. This hut has survived for over 100 years due to sturdy construction. It is now provides historical insight into the good old days. Check the graffitti.

We also recommend the Springs sidetrip though it is not essential. Lovely cold clear water bubbles out of the ground to join Ohinepango stream. Nothing spectacular but OK.

Old Waihohonu Hut, a protected historic building

The trail is mostly flat but for drops into and out of old (usually dry) waterways. Some consider it dull.

Keep your head up & admire the volcanos on either side.

After a gradual climb up on to the saddle between the peaks, you can sidetrip up to the Tama Lakes:

1. lower Tama lake (15 minutes)
2. both lower & upper Tama lakes (90 minutes)

The lower lake is another short diversion & a nice break. The upper a bit of an epic. Check out the lower lake for sure. Go for the upper if you have time & energy in reserve.

We should mention that some are a tad disappointed in the lakes. But they look great from an aerial view!

Tama lakes, Ruapehu in background

About an hour before reaching Whakapapa you have a choice of 2 paths to town. We recommend you turn right via Taranaki Falls, a lovely spot for a break and a splash.

Taranaki Falls

Impressive Grand Chateau hotel comes into view first. The Northern Circuit is a serious walk. You have survived it.

If flush with cash, go check in to this the second most famous hotel in New Zealand (after the Hermitage at Mount Cook). Rooms from NZ$125 and way, way up.

Otherwise head for the bus stop with the rest of us.

the Chateau at Whakapapa