River Way Lodge guidebook
Sightseeing
Great to relax after the crossing or skiing. There are private pools and large public pool. There is also a track behind the complex worth exploring.
54 locals recommend
Tokaanu Thermal Pools
Mangaroa StreetGreat to relax after the crossing or skiing. There are private pools and large public pool. There is also a track behind the complex worth exploring.
The river is located just a short walking distance from the lodge where you'll find the swing bridge that will take you over to the other side of the river. Maps are available from the isite centre and these walking trails are a must do in Turangi.
15 locals recommend
Tongariro River
The river is located just a short walking distance from the lodge where you'll find the swing bridge that will take you over to the other side of the river. Maps are available from the isite centre and these walking trails are a must do in Turangi.
My recommendation for travel to Tongariro Crossing is Backyard Tours. They are from the area and will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you back once your trek is complete. You'll have a great time time, and even a beer afterwards!
156 locals recommend
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
My recommendation for travel to Tongariro Crossing is Backyard Tours. They are from the area and will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you back once your trek is complete. You'll have a great time time, and even a beer afterwards!
A must see while in the area and only 45 mins from your accommodation. Have lunch at the highest cafe in NZ.
67 locals recommend
Mount Ruapehu
A must see while in the area and only 45 mins from your accommodation. Have lunch at the highest cafe in NZ.
Turangi i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
1 Ngawaka PlLots to see and do here!
Just a short 45 minute drive along the National Park road you'll arrive at this iconic heritage hotel. Some amazing walking trails await, great food in a grand restaurant or just enjoy a delicious snack at any of the cafe's. Bookings are essential for the restaurant.
30 locals recommend
Chateau Tongariro Hotel
State Highway 48Just a short 45 minute drive along the National Park road you'll arrive at this iconic heritage hotel. Some amazing walking trails await, great food in a grand restaurant or just enjoy a delicious snack at any of the cafe's. Bookings are essential for the restaurant.
Food scene
Turangi Tavern
277 Te Rangitautahanga RdTurangi Bridge Motel, Bar & Restaurant
4600 State Hwy 1Great lamb shanks!
Valentino's Italian Restaurant
Yummy authentic italian food. Try the papardelle!
Just a stroll along the river to this amazing restaurant tucked away in the bush. Well worth a visit.
10 locals recommend
Hare & Copper
134 Grace RdJust a stroll along the river to this amazing restaurant tucked away in the bush. Well worth a visit.
Tongariro Lodge
83 Grace RdBookings essential for this restaurant. Great home cooked meals.
City/town information
Very old town but lots of character and the best fish and chips in NZ. They still hand cut their chips! Golden Kiwi Takeaways, Jeremy from Seven Sharp's fave. Taumarunui is about a 45 min drive through the National Park.
Taumarunui
Very old town but lots of character and the best fish and chips in NZ. They still hand cut their chips! Golden Kiwi Takeaways, Jeremy from Seven Sharp's fave. Taumarunui is about a 45 min drive through the National Park.
The army museum here is well worth a visit and enjoy the drive along the Desert Road. Not recommended in winter, and I recommend Pizza at Franco's. Real italian pizza!
Waiouru
The army museum here is well worth a visit and enjoy the drive along the Desert Road. Not recommended in winter, and I recommend Pizza at Franco's. Real italian pizza!