The Best Hotels and Motels Around Tongariro National Park give you comfort, convenience, and a warm place to relax after a day in the mountains. From alpine lodges in Whakapapa Village to boutique stays in Ohakune and Waimarino, there’s an option for every style of traveller.
Staying in a hotel or motel means you can enjoy the extras — cosy rooms, hearty meals onsite and friendly hospitality, while keeping close to the park’s trails, ski fields, and adventure activities. Whether you’re here for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a winter on the slopes or a quiet getaway in the Central Plateau, these are the best stays to book.
🏡 Manowhenua Lodge – Waimarino
Owned and Operated by born and bred locals, Thomas and Tracey. Set in Waimarino (National Park), 16 km from Mount Ruapehu, Manowhenua Lodge offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking and a shared lounge. The accommodation provides a shared kitchen and free WiFi throughout the property. All guest rooms at the hostel come with a shared bathroom and bed linen. You can play billiards and table tennis at Manowhenua Lodge, and the area is popular for hiking and skiing. They also provide a paid shuttle service to the Mountain and Tongariro Crossing.
Quick Facts:
- 📍 Location: Central Waimarino (formerly National Park Village)
- 🛏 Rooms: Mix of private and dorm-style rooms
- 🍴 Facilities: Shared kitchen, lounge, drying room for ski gear
- 🚐 Best for: Budget-conscious travellers and solo adventurers
🏔 Tongariro Crossing Lodge – Waimarino
If you’re after something more boutique, Tongariro Crossing Lodge blends alpine charm with personal hospitality. The lodge has individually styled suites, beautiful gardens, and welcoming hosts who know the area inside out. It’s ideal if you want to add a little comfort to your Central Plateau adventure.
Quick Facts:
- 📍 Location: Waimarino (National Park Village)
- 🛏 Rooms: Boutique suites with unique décor
- 🍴 Facilities: Breakfast available, guest lounge, garden setting
- 🚶 Best for: Couples, comfort seekers and those walking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
🏘 Rocky Mountain Chalets – Ohakune
For a mix of independence and comfort, Rocky Mountain Chalets in Ohakune are a great choice. These self-contained chalets give you space to cook, relax and enjoy your own alpine base. Perfect for families or groups, they balance homely comfort with the convenience of being close to town.
Quick Facts:
- 📍 Location: Ohakune, near town centre
- 🛏 Rooms: Self-contained chalets with kitchens and lounges
- 🍴 Facilities: Spa, sauna, communal BBQ area, Wi-Fi
- ❄️ Best for: Families and groups who want space and independence
🏨 Park Hotel – Waimarino
In Waimarino (formerly National Park Village), the Park Hotel is a reliable option for travellers who want a hotel stay right by the mountain. Rooms are modern and comfortable, and the onsite restaurant makes dinner easy after a big day. It’s a practical choice if you want to stay close to the trails without giving up the little luxuries.
Quick Facts:
- 📍 Location: Waimarino (National Park Village)
- 🛏 Rooms: Standard hotel rooms with modern comforts
- 🍴 Facilities: Onsite restaurant and bar, guest lounge
- ❄️ Best for: Couples and travellers looking for hotel-style comfort close to the park
🛏 Hobbit Motor Lodge – Ohakune
Quirky and welcoming, the Hobbit Motor Lodge is one of Ohakune’s most distinctive places to stay. It offers a range of rooms, from motel units to backpacker-style options, making it versatile for different budgets. The relaxed vibe and handy location make it a favourite with both families and adventurers.
Quick Facts:
- 📍 Location: Ohakune, within walking distance of town
- 🛏 Rooms: Mix of motel units, lodge rooms, and dorms
- 🍴 Facilities: Communal kitchen, BBQs, spa, laundry
- ❄️ Best for: Travellers who want character and flexibility at a good price
🌄 Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right hotel or motel around Tongariro National Park comes down to the experience you want. Stay in Waimarino for quick access to the park and a peaceful base close to the trails. Or head to Ohakune, where you’ll find a lively alpine town with restaurants, bars and the gateway to Tūroa Ski Field.
Both towns have a strong range of comfortable, well-equipped accommodation, making it easy to enjoy the mountains by day and relax in style by night. Wherever you stay, you’ll be close to the landscapes that make this region so special.
“Ko te whenua te waiū mō ngā uri whakatipu.”
The land is the sustenance for future generations.