YHA National Park is the closest backpackers to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand’s National Parks of Tongariro and Whanganui and dual World Heritage area. With magnificent views of the volcanoes right from the doorstep, the National Park hostel accommodation ranges from budget backpacker beds to private ensuite rooms. Other facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, BBQ area, internet access and a laundry and drying room which is especially useful after tackling the Tongariro Crossing or a hard day’s skiing at Mt Ruapehu.
There is a friendly, social environment at the YHA National Park Backpackers which is partly due to the fact that the hostel has been built around a challenging 8 metre high indoor climbing wall! Open daily with 55 different climbs, gear hire and free instruction, you must give this climbing wall a try while staying at YHA National Park. There is a bar/restaurant just next door and other amenities like ski hire, postal services and takeaways are a short walking distance from the National Park hostel.
National Park Backpackers have their own bus to go to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, summer and winter, departing daily, weather depending. In winter there are guided trips available. Their ski bus to Whakapapa ski field departs from the front door at 8.30 am, return 4 pm. Mountain Bike transport to the 42nd traverse is available on request. Check directly with the hostel for the current prices of these services. The hostel is a booking agent for Whanganui River Trips, Intercity bus, Northern Explorer train and Interislander ferry.
Facilities
