National Park village
Volcanoes as neighbours
The Northern Explorer makes a quick stop at National Park Village, the closest station to Chateau Tongariro and the Whakapapa ski field.
Aptly named, National Park village borders the World Heritage Tongariro National Park and its three active volcanoes to the east and the Whanganui National Park and Whanganui river to the west. Visitors can get out and explore the volcanic plateau, go hiking, biking, rafting, wilderness fishing or take to the water by jet boat or canoe on the historic Whanganui river.
Whakapapa ski field offers 675 metres of vertical drop, more than 30 groomed trails as well as its steep chutes, couloirs and superb off-piste skiing.
"Fantastic journey from Auckland to National Park for 2 weeks and return trip. Loved the scenery, the train and the staff were very friendly."