The Tongariro Crossing is called the nicest walk in NZ by Lonely Planet and we definitely were not disappointed. The crossing is an 18km hike up and over Mt. Tongariro, an active volcano. The scenery on the way up (called the Devil's Staircase) is difficult to describe so I'll let the pics do the talking (when I get them up!) but the views on the way down are even more impressive. As you cross the peak you get this magnificent view of the Emerald Lakes, three lakes created by the volcano with very clear (and green) water. You keep working your way down the back side of the mountain, all the while with views of the horizon that seem to go on forever. The walk is supposed to take 7-8 hours but we managed to do it in about 5 1/2. The hostel tonight is the nicest so far. It has a huge lodge/common area with a couple of fireplaces to warm up after a long day of skiing in the winter. Good beer too!!
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