Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in , Manawatu-Wanganui!

Tongariro National Park

Why Visit?

Discover the rugged beauty of Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with this wheelchair-accessible tour itinerary designed for a day of adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Morning: Whakapapa Visitor Centre & Te Porere Redoubt

Start your day at the Whakapapa Visitor Centre, where you can explore informative displays about the park"s geology and Maori mythology. The centre is fully accessible and offers an excellent introduction to the area"s natural and cultural heritage. Just a short distance from the visitor center, visit Te Porere Redoubt, a historic Maori fortification site. Although the terrain is a bit uneven, a well-maintained pathway makes it accessible for wheelchairs and scooters.

Midday: Silica Rapids Walk

For a taste of Tongariro’s diverse landscapes, head to the Silica Rapids Walk. The trail starts from the Bruce Road, 6 km from Whakapapa. This walk has an accessible boardwalk that leads through mountain beech forest and alpine wetlands, culminating in views of the stunning silica terraces, which are wheelchair accessible for the first 700 meters.

Afternoon: Taranaki Falls Loop

In the afternoon, explore the Taranaki Falls Loop, which offers a partially accessible route for sturdy wheelchairs and scooters. The first section of the trail, leading to a splendid lookout point, is well-maintained and offers awe-inspiring views of the cascading waterfall against the backdrop of volcanic peaks.

Evening: Return & Relax

Conclude your tour by returning to the Whakapapa Village. Enjoy a hot drink or an early dinner at the cozy café in the village, reflecting on a day spent among the wonders of Tongariago National Park.

Practical Tips

Book a wheelchair-accessible vehicle or confirm transport options with shuttle services available from nearby towns like Taupo or Turangi. Ensure your mobile device is charged, and carry spare batteries for scooters to enjoy a full day of exploring without any worries.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Ohakune Old Coach Road (Old Coach Road Bike Trail)

Why Visit?

Discover the enchanting vistas and historical echoes of the Ohakune Old Coach Road on a wheelchair-friendly tour that promises both adventure and accessibility. This former horse-drawn coach route, rich in New Zealand"s pioneering history, has been thoughtfully restored and is now a premier accessible trail that winds through lush native forests and past impressive railway engineering feats.

Starting Point: Ohakune

Begin your journey in the quaint town of Ohakune, easily reachable by car or train from major cities like Wellington or Auckland. At the Ohakune Railway Station, find ample accessible parking and a well-marked entrance to the Old Coach Road. The local visitor center offers wheelchair-adapted rentals for an effortless experience.

The Journey

The trail itself is a gentle, well-compacted gravel path suitable for wheelchears and mobile scooters, stretching approximately 15 kilometers. As you set off, you"ll be enveloped by towering native Rimu and Kahikatea trees, creating a serene canopy overhead. Along the route, marvel at the historical Hapuawhenua Viaduct, an engineering masterpiece from 1908, fully restored with an accessible viewing platform that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Key Stops

1. Hapuawhenua Viaduct - Pause here and soak in the panoramic vistas. Information panels provide fascinating insights into the viaduct"s construction and its crucial role in New Zealand’s rail history.

2. Taonui Viaduct - Another impressive structure, smaller than Hapuawhenua but equally steeped in historical significance.

End of the Trail

The trail concludes at Horopito, where you can arrange for a return shuttle back to Ohakune. This service allows for a comfortable round-trip without the need to backtrack.

Throughout the journey, take the opportunity to spot native birds like the cheeky fantail or the elusive wood pigeon. With every turn of the wheel, the Ohakune Old Coach Road offers a mix of accessibility, natural beauty, and historical intrigue, ensuring an enriching outing for all.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.