Mt Ngauruhoe

Mt Ngauruhoe is volcanic composite cone mountain, world renown as Mount Doom for anyone who has watched Lord of the Rings.

Although a magnificent site seen in many vantage points along the Tongariro Crossing it is strongly discouraged that you do not hike the mountain. The peak of Mt Ngauruhoe holds sacred significance for the local Māori as it is seen as a scared pathway between the people and their ancestors or gods. Although it is no illegal to climb it, both the local Māori and DOC (Department of Conservation) discourage its climb both for sacred and safety reasons. The climb avoiding the sacred summit is a perilous journey for only experienced climbers. 

Hikers can experience its grandeur and respect the significance to the Māori owners from a distance on the Tongariro Crossing as well as gain some impressive photos of the mountain as a backdrop to their journey.