Recent stories
We are pleased to bring you the latest from around the Taupō & Tūrangi communities. Reporting local, supporting local.
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Seismic shift in earthquake rating
OPINION: New Zealand’s proposed new earthquake-rating framework is set to reshape the commercial property landscape, altering how buildings are valued, financed, and insured — and offering a possible lifeline to one of the country’s most iconic heritage structures, the Chateau Tongariro.
Tongariro open for business
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing has reopened, albeit with a charred section at the beginning of the track.
Fire dies down, reveals damage
Wet weather and a lack of wind has turned the tide in favour of firefighters battling a huge blaze in Tongariro National Park.
Tongariro National Park still burning
The air attack on the Tongariro National Park fire will continue once the mist has cleared.
Chateau could benefit from rule change
Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton has welcomed the government's overhaul of the earthquake-prone building system, saying it could be a big win for the famous Chateau Tongariro hotel.
The gift that keeps on giving
In 1887, the then paramount chief of Ngāti Tūwharetoa Horonuku Te Heuheu Tukino 1V, gifted the sacred summits of Tongariro to the government to protect their tapu, but also, as Sir Hepi Te Heuheu wrote “to be owned by no-one and yet be for everyone”.
A ‘quiet leader with immense mana’
Tributes continue to flow for Sir Tumu Te Heuheu Tūkino VIII, acknowledging his quiet nature and focus on the future.
National park dog photo earns owner $400 fine
A woman who took photographs of herself illegally taking several dogs into Tongariro National Park has been given a $400 infringement notice for her “blatant disregard” of the law.
Foreign tourist levy for Tongariro
Foreign visitors will be charged a fee of $20-$40 to walk the Tongariro Crossing and three other popular New Zealand places.
Full mountain skiing arrives at Ruapehu
Tūroa Ski Area is opening the High Noon Express chairlift this Saturday, marking the first weekend of the 2025 ski season with top-to-bottom skiing on Mt Ruapehu.
Popular track off-limits to vehicles
The Department of Conservation is reminding four-wheel drive owners that the 42 Traverse is off-limits over winter to protect the track.
Still a ‘great’ overnighter
The Tongariro Northern Circuit as a multi-day Great Walk loop is out of action over the 2025-26 season to make way for construction of a new Oturere Hut.
DOC says ‘don’t bring the dog’
Tongariro Department of Conservation rangers in Ohakune have come up with a lighthearted way to educate their furry friends on the rules for Tongariro National Park.
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