Discover what the central North Island is all about with a grand tour of Ohakune. This small town is situated near the Tongariro National Park and offers an inviting combination of stunning scenery and thrilling activities. Its close proximity to Mount Ruapehu make Ohakune a popular winter destination, though there are things to do in Ohakune year-round. The town is an excellent base for adventures in the Tongariro National Park, and the quaint charm of the local amusements and one-off experiences will make you want to come back for more. Here are some of the best things to do in Ohakune.
1. Walk to a waterfall
Ohakune is surrounded by stunning scenery and beautiful hikes; among the best are the waterfalls on Mount Ruapehu’s slopes. Waitonga Falls are the highest waterfalls in Tongariro National Park, accessible via a 4 km walking track. Enjoy a forested walk through the beech and kaikawaka trees to the wetlands. Alongside the 39-metre-high cascading waters of Waitonga Falls, you’re treated to a reflection of the rugged mountain landscapes in the Rotokawa pools. The Mangawhero Falls offers a short walk to a picturesque waterfall not far from the bush line. In winter, you can see icicles forming around the cascading water, which adds to the magical ambience. Both falls are accessible via Ohakune Mountain Road; Waitonga Falls sits 11 km into your mountain drive, while Mangowhero Falls is slightly further up the road.
For more must-see waterfalls in the North Island, check out our list of 5 Must-See Waterfalls in the Bay of Plenty here.
2. Safari on a canoe
A canoe safari offers the chance to get close to some of the natural wonders in this area. Canoe Safaris provide inclusive experiences for all, including those who have never paddled before and the keen seasoned pros. These guided trips offer the perfect blend of fun, exploration, and relaxation where you can soak up the sights of the Whanganui or Rangitikei River alongside a professional guide. These experts provide a fascinating insight into the historical landmarks along the way. Guided canoe adventures run between one and five days, with everything taken care of so that you can sit back and relax. Camping equipment is supplied, as are daily meals including cooked breakfasts and three-course dinners.
3. Carrot Adventure Park
Experience a day trip with a difference at the Ohakune Carrot Adventure Park, where the surreal landscapes offer one of the best family things to do in Ohakune. Initially set up in 1984, the giant carrot symbolised Ohakune’s biggest crop. Today a short walk leads from this monument to the adventure park, where you’ll find a range of larger-than-life vegetables, an adventure playground, and an obstacle course. While you’re here, take a walk or hike through the surrounding vegetation and lap up the sunshine in one of the beautiful waterside picnic spots.
4. Go skiing
Turoa Ski Field is just 20 minutes from Ohakune, making this town the perfect spot for a North Island winter getaway. Famous for its natural features such as half-pipe-like bowls and smooth open slopes, Turoa allows you to explore a range of snowy wonders. Improve your skills or simply cruise and enjoy some time on the slopes. If you’re not a ski fanatic, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to see and do here. Soak up the views with some sightseeing on the Sky Waka, New Zealand’s longest gondola. Make time for fun in the snow at the sledding and sliding zone, or grab a bite to eat at one of the onsite restaurants.
5. Short walks
Among the best things to do in Ohakune is the range of short walks available. The Mangawhero Forest Walk is a beautiful one-hour loop track that weaves its way through kāmahi, rimu, and kahikatea forests. During this walk you’ll cross a volcanic crater as you traverse the waters of the Mangawhero River. Alternatively, a scenic walk along the Mangawhero River walkway offers open, grassy areas and the perfect spot for a picnic. This popular riverside walk is among the best things to do in Ohakune with a dog, as many DOC sites don’t allow your canine companions to join in the adventure.
6. Test your climbing skills
Vertigo Climbing is one of the best things to do in Ohakune on a rainy day. This all-weather attraction has a range of purpose-built walls to test your skills and get the adrenaline racing. Climbing walls 10 metres high and 12 metres long with overhangs will challenge climbers and make for a great day out! There’s a Tetris-style wall and a dry ice themed wall for people to clip in and enjoy. Big pink shapes resembling gobstoppers from Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory keep it fun for the whole family. Vertigo climbing is a feast for the senses and is something a little unique to do in Ohakune.
7. Hunt for dinosaurs
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Ohakune, check out the Dinosaur House, which is guaranteed to keep youngsters happy. Teleport millions of years into the past to explore these wondrous creatures’ lives and ignite the whole family’s imagination. Here, you’ll find New Zealand’s largest privately owned collection of dinosaur skeletons and several life-size models to fill your kids with wonder. You can also sit down to watch a dinosaur documentary or play retro video games. Before you leave, check out the gift shop to buy a memento to take home. The Dinosaur House is in the neighbouring small town of Raetihi, just 10 minutes from Ohakune.
