Taumarunui, the meeting place of the Whanganui and Ongarue Rivers, was an important centre in Maori history. A rural service and shopping centre and the largest town in the Ruapehu District, Tamarunui is known for its farming, railway history, trout fishing, gardens and weaving. The golf course is listed amongst the country's top 50. Taumarunui is around 2.5 hours from Hamilton and 45 mins to Whakapapa Village in the Tongariro National Park. The Pureora Forest Park to the north-east has large stands of ancient native trees and abundant bird life. A good range of walks and tracks and mountain biking is available. Owhango, a small village 20 mins drive south, borders the Tongariro Forest Park containing pristine rivers, scenic bush and native wildlife, home to the famous 42 Traverse mountain bike ride which starts at the volcanic plateau end.
Taumarunui is a beautiful area with great weather and a wide variety of terrain, flora, bird life and history within easy reach. Whether you want a picnic, a short walk or something a little more energetic there are plenty of places to go. The bush, waterfalls, lakes, mountains and rivers are not just the domain of the fit trampers but can be enjoyed by all. A local book is available for sale called TAUMARUNUI - Heart of the King Country by local authors Hugh & Shirley Barton. You can purchase the book at the Taumarunui Information Centre (Railway Station, Hakiaha St +64-7-8957494)
The book has a number of local walks and excursions.
