Compared to much of the world, the mere fact that I am writing about this trip means that I am in a lucky and privileged position and my heart goes out to all those people whose lives are currently seriously constrained.
Over Xmas it is traditional for Kiwis to head for the coast, meaning that these areas are usually super busy and no fun at all. We consequently invariably head inland at this time of the year to escape the madding crowds.
We stayed in Ohakune which is a small town situated on the edge of the Tongariro NP - home to many of New Zealand’s volcanoes and a stunningly beautiful area in general. To add a bit of spice Mt Ruapehu’s volcanic alert level was raised the day before we went (since the White Island tragedy the alert levels are taken a lot more seriously).
The weather was unseasonably cold and even snowed at one point, but we got out and about anyway.
Among other delights, we walked to the Hapuawhenua Viaduct, visited the Mangawhero Falls and took a gondola ride up to Mt Ruapehu.
Mangawhero Falls - it was supposed to be summer, but felt like mid winter.
Hapuawhenua Viaduct
Hapuawhenua Viaduct again
Mt Ruapehu - this is about as far as we were allowed to go
