Most people just do the Tongariro Crossing, which, don't get me wrong, is absolutely stunning. Not enough people do the full Norther Circuit Great Walk, though! Plus, the crossing is flooded with tourists, less people tramp the overnight walk.

Take sidetrips to climb Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. The latter is a bloody difficult and initially disheartening scramble up nothing but scree. 2.5 hours up, 20 minutes down. Still, I've been able to tell my friends ever since that I climbed Mt. Doom.

The Emerald Lakes also bear a mention. That whole region is magical... no other word for it. Let's hope Ruapehu doesn't go off again and cover the whole area in ash and lava...

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