Rangipo Desert Scenery from Tukino. Central North Island. New Zealand. - Scenic Overlooks on Waymarking.com

Many people drive through the Central North Island along the Desert Road but they miss out on these stunning views from higher up the mountain slopes, way above the Desert Road. From this particular scenic outlook on Mt Ruapehu, up a rough 4WD poled track near the junction with the signposted Round The Mountain walking track, there are stunning views across the Rangipo Desert, the Desert Road below and the mountainous Kaimanawa Ranges which lie beyond to the east.
You can also catch a tiny glimpse of the Moawhango Dam lying in the Waiouru Military area off the Desert Road. Turn to face the north and see as far as Lake Taupo, across the volcanic slopes of Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe and the barren Rangipo Desert.

This is quite a trek to reach here; You may have to leave your vehicle at the Desert Road carpark, and if you can drive over the rough road you will have to leave your vehicle in the lower carpark and then climb the steep slope. A 4WD vehicle may be able to reach the communication towers at the top depending on the road condition or season. There is a gate across this Skifield road so if in doubt, you had better plan a long walk. Wear suitable clothing and shoes for mountain trekking. There will be snow in Winter or Spring and it has been known to snow in Summer so be prepared.
Bring warm clothes, binoculars, camera, drink bottles etc, there are no shops or facilities here.

Type of overlook: Walk by Picnic tables: no Benches: no Water/restrooms: no Overlook designation: just a view Elevation: 4,590.00 View: Views across the Kaimanawa Ranges, Desert Road, Rangipo Desert, mountain slopes of Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe and as far north as Lake Taupo.

Visit Instructions:
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Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   09/29/2019 Punga and Paua visited it