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Tama Lakes, Tongariro National Park

The view South to Lower Tama Lake and Mt Ruapehu, from the highest point on the track. Photo: Stephanie Cotteret
Area
Tongariro National Park
Distance
7.7km
Time
2-3hr
Grade
Easy
Access
Car park at the end of Ngauruhoe Place behind the Chateau Tongariro
Map
BH34
GPX File
Tama Lakes (gpx, yo 4 KB)
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Although a much quieter and less energy-sapping tramp than the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the walk to Upper and Lower Tama lakes involves an exposed ridge so it is important to be well-prepared with waterproof and windproof clothing.

The first hour to the Taranaki Falls is relatively easy.

The track then climbs about 220m across exposed terrain to Tama Saddle.

Six kilometres in, the track branches off to Lower Tama.

To view Upper Tama requires a steep climb up a scree slope. The views are great as the lakes are nestled between Mt Ruapehu and the much closer Ngauruhoe.