Enjoy some heart-pumping action by clambering up the flanks of a 65,000-year-old dormant volcano for sweeping views across Lake Taupō towards the sacred peaks of Tongariro National Park.

There's often a happy hive of energetic activity on its bush-clad flanks. Each day, a steady stream of locals and tourists navigate steep pastures for 20 minutes before entering the forest and embarking on a steady climb, often with rooty sections and through narrow dirt channels before a final push to the trig at 1,088 metres above sea level.

But don't stop at the trig. Instead, follow the path to an exposed rocky outcrop for expansive views of the Central Plateau. Time your climb for even more swoon-worthy views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a peachy glow across the landscape.

Be prepared

Prepare for this challenging hike with sturdy footwear, water, snacks, and warm clothing due to potentially chilly, windy conditions at the summit. Mount Tauhara holds cultural significance for the local Māori; please stay on the track and respect the environment.