The Tongariro Crossing - the legend...
Legend has it that Ngatoroirangi, archpriest
of one of the discovery canoes, Te Arawa, saw Mount Tongariro and
proceeded to climb it with his followers when a freezing southerly wind
struck. His followers fled for safety and Ngatoroirangi, having scaled
to the summit on his own, was caught out. On the verge of death he
summoned his ancestral spirits in Hawaiki to send fire and volcanoes to
warm him, which they did creating the volcanic activity still present
today.
Mount Tongariro remains a legend today, inspiring thousands from around
the world to climb in the footsteps of Ngatoroirangi – past
emerald crater lakes and bursts of volcanic steam to discover the
spellbinding views below of a world heritage treasure – Tongariro
National Park.
Tongariro Crossing
The Tongariro Crossing is regarded as one
of the world’s finest walks. Beginning in the native forest
tracks on the western slopes of the mountain and climbing up along the
rocky volcanic track into an incredible mountainous realm, the walk
finally culminates in glorious panoramic views from the summit.
Unsurprisingly, summer often finds the Tongariro mountain tracks filled
with walkers.
Fortunately, River Birches offers an exclusive, privately guided
crossing by an experienced mountain guide where, after taking in the
most popular vistas, you can escape the crowds and explore rarely seen,
superb views of the Tongariro surrounds from special mountain trails.
For something truly memorable, a pre-dawn departure can be arranged
getting you to the top of Red Crater to watch the sun rise –
magical light, tranquility and amazing views will make this experience
unforgettable.
Tongariro River
American writer Zane Gray fished this river the 1920s regaling readers
with tales of huge Rainbow and Brown trout in numbers so prodigious it
caused a stampede of fisherman from around the globe, fishing its fast
flowing teal-green waters. Shortly after, even the Queen Mother was
drawn to fish the Tongariro at the area now known as the Duchess Pool.
The River Birches lodge is located alongside the banks of the Tongariro
making it the perfect refuge for all manner of river based activity,
from fly fishing iconic trout pools, through to whitewater rafting,
kayaking and hiking the scenic bush-lined walks spanning both sides of
the river.
Tongariro lodges
Staying at River Birches lodge puts you in the heart of all the
Tongariro region has to offer. After exploring the scenic delights of
the Tongariro Crossing or walking the beautiful river tracks, soak in
River Birches’ cedar hot tub with a chilled glass of fine New
Zealand wine, or order a massage and contemplate your options for
gourmet dinning.
River Birches is all about understated luxury that offers the
discerning traveler great value at an affordable price. Lodge
rooms provide sumptuous comfort with all modern conveniences and
technology, while The Cottage at River Birches provides a three bedroom
‘home-away-from-home’ for families and larger
groups.
For exploring the Tongariro make River Birches your ‘go
to’ destination.
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