Ohakune Travel Guide

Explore Ohakune with our informative and detailed travel guide, including where to stay in Ohakune, things to do, and how to get around.


Introduction to Ohakune

Ohakune is a picturesque town located in the central North Island of New Zealand, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and countless activities to explore. The town is situated near the base of Mount Ruapehu, which has been recognised as one of the most active volcanoes in New Zealand. Ohakune is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with its ideal location for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

List of Places to Visit in Ohakune

Ohakune is home to some of New Zealand’s best skiing, hiking, and mountain biking trails. Here is a list of the must-visit places in Ohakune:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ohakune Museum: Discover the rich heritage and history of the town in this small museum. The museum houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits, including photos and stories of the early pioneers who settled in Ohakune.
  • National Army Museum: Located in Waiouru, an hour’s drive from Ohakune, the National Army Museum is a must-visit for World War I and II enthusiasts. The museum houses numerous artefacts, exhibits, and replicas of important war events.

Natural Attractions of Ohakune: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tongariro National Park: This national park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and encompasses three active volcanoes - Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe. Visitors can indulge in activities such as skiing, hiking and visiting the famous Emerald Lakes.
  • Whanganui River: One of New Zealand’s most scenic rivers, the Whanganui River, provides visitors with amazing kayaking, canoeing, and jet boating experiences.
  • Ohakune Old Coach Road: An historic trail that takes you through the Tongariro National Park, allowing visitors to view the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ohakune

Ohakune is a hiker’s and mountain biker’s paradise, with a wide variety of trails that cater to different levels of fitness and experience. The following are some of the most popular hiking/biking routes in Ohakune:

  • Tongariro Alpine Crossing: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a world-renowned trek that takes visitors across the Tongariro National Park. This 19.4km trek takes you through volcanic terrain, alpine vegetation and past beautiful emerald lakes.
  • Old Coach Road: The Ohakune Old Coach Road spans 14km and offers a superb cycling experience for both beginners and pros. This historic trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you cycle through tunnels, over bridges and past farm paddocks.

Best Things to Do in Ohakune: Activities and Tours

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: The world-renowned ski fields of Mount Ruapehu offer visitors of all levels the chance to enjoy some of the best skiing and snowboarding experiences in New Zealand.
  • Jet Boating: Experience the thrill and adrenaline rush of jet boating on the Whanganui River. Admire the beautiful scenery as you navigate your way through rapids, and experience the power and excitement of the jet boat as it whisks you along.
  • Mountain Biking: Ohakune is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in the world. The scenic trails take you through the Tongariro National Park and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ohakune

Here is a week-long itinerary for visitors to make the most of their time in Ohakune:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Ohakune area on foot or bike
2 Visit the Ohakune Museum and learn about the town’s history
3 Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
4 Visit the Whanganui River for some kayaking and canoeing
5 Take a jet boat ride down the Whanganui River
6 Ski or snowboard at Mt Ruapehu
7 Visit the National Army Museum in Waiouru and learn about New Zealand’s defence history

Food and Drink Scene of Ohakune

Ohakune offers a variety of dining options for visitors, ranging from local cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Kai-bihs: A traditional Maori dish made with corn, bacon, and cheese.
  • Hangi: Another traditional Maori dish, Hangi is a slow-cooked feast that features meat, vegetables and steamed pudding cooked underground.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Ohakune is home to a growing brewery scene, with several breweries offering locally brewed craft beer.
  • Wine: The nearby Hawke’s Bay region is well-known for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Where to Stay in Ohakune: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ohakune offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury chalets:

  • Asure Parklands Motor Lodge: A top-rated family-friendly motel in Ohakune
  • The Powderhorn Chateau: A luxurious boutique hotel offering mountain views
  • LKNZ Lodge: A popular budget-friendly hostel, catering to backpackers and adventure seekers alike.

What to Buy in Ohakune: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Merino Wool: New Zealand is world-renowned for its wool industry, and Ohakune offers a variety of Merino wool products, from beanies to socks and scarves.
  • Bee Products: New Zealand is known for its honey, and you can buy a variety of honey and bee-related products, such as Manuka honey and beeswax candles.
  • Maori Artifacts: Maori artifacts, such as bone carvings and artwork, are unique and special souvenirs to bring back home from Ohakune.

Local Culture and Customs of Ohakune

The Maori culture is an integral part of Ohakune, and many of the town’s attractions and activities pay tribute to the Maori traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect the Maori customs and treat cultural sites with reverence.

Best Time to Visit Ohakune

The best time to visit Ohakune depends on your interests. The summer months (December to February) are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and river adventures. Winter (June to September) is a great time for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ohakune

Do:

  • Respect the Maori culture and treat cultural sites with reverence.
  • Dress appropriately for outdoor activities, with proper gear and layers.
  • Take necessary precautions when skiing or snowboarding.

Don’t:

  • Damage the natural environment, whether it’s plants, animals or natural features.
  • Litter or contaminate the waterways.
  • Engage in any disrespectful or harmful behaviour towards the Maori culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ohakune

Ohakune is considered a safe town, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware of the dangers of the outdoor activities they engage in, such as skiing, snowboarding and hiking, and take necessary precautions.

Health in Ohakune

It’s important to monitor your health in Ohakune, particularly if you are participating in outdoor activities. Visitors should take precautions such as applying sunscreen and mosquito repellent, as well as drinking plenty of water.

Getting to Ohakune: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ohakune is located in the central North Island of New Zealand and can be accessed by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Ohakune

The nearest airport to Ohakune is the Palmerston North Airport, which is approximately a two-hour drive away. The Wellington Airport is also an option, with a three-hour drive to Ohakune.

Bus Stations Near Ohakune

Bus services are available from major cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland, Wellington and Napier. Intercity and Naked Bus are popular bus services in New Zealand.

Other Options

Renting a car or driving your own from major cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland or Wellington, is also a popular option.

How to Get Around in Ohakune

Ohakune is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent bikes or cars to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Ohakune: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mount Taranaki: A 2.5-hour drive from Ohakune, Mount Taranaki is a beautiful destination for hiking, mountaineering, and sightseeing.
  • Wellington: New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, is a three-hour drive from Ohakune and offers a variety of attractions, from museums to outdoor activities.
  • Napier: The Art Deco capital of New Zealand, Napier is a four-hour drive from Ohakune, and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Conclusion

From skiing to hiking, to mountain biking, and river adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Ohakune. This comprehensive guide should have given you an insight into the rich cultural history and natural beauty of this lovely town. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an adventure-filled holiday in Ohakune!

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