tongariro northern circuit: oturere hut - whakapapa village
On my last day hiking the Tongariro Northern Circuit, I woke feeling calm and resolute. My busted knee was stiff, but I felt confident I’d make it through the big 14 mile day. I’d have to, after all… I didn’t have much of a choice!
I said goodbye to my new trail friends, and ascended through moon-like terrain as I skirted behind Mt. Nagauruhoe.
Day 1: mud. Day 2: volcano. Day 3: river!
Mt. Doom in the clouds
As I crossed the 7 mile halfway mark, I tried to relax: I was going to make it. My leg was functioning well enough, and I would not need an embarrassing heli evac.
Although it was the longest day of the circuit, it was easy hiking along rivers and valleys. The trail culminated with the beautiful Taranaki Falls.
And with that, I’d done it: 27.5 miles, one new scar, and my first completed NZ Great Walk!
I changed into clean(er) clothes in the van, and drove out into town to get better bandages and a celebratory drink. While reflecting on my hike at Schnapps Bar, I saw the most aptly named septic truck metaphor for this adventure: “SUCK IT UP!”
I had a few more days in NZ to go, and one more bucket list item to check off.
where: tongariro northern circuit, tongariro national park, north island, new zealand
when: february//summer in the southern hemisphere
how: department of conservation guide// reservations required at campsites and huts. trail is under repair for summer 25/26
