The resort town of Ohakune is the southern gateway to the Tongariro National Park. Just 20 minutess drive from Turoa ski area on the south-western side of
Mt Ruapehu, winter sees Ohakune transformed into the bustling apres ski capital of the North Island. Fertile soll rich with volcan ash, Ohakune is also known as the Carrot Capital of New Zealand, reflecting the importance of market gardening to this area.

Key scenes for the Lord of the Rings trilogy were shot on this side of Mt Ruapehu, with the film crew making its base in Ohakune, whereas the film crew for the River Queen movie spent several months in the historic town of Raetihi filming scenes on and around the Whanganui River and the Whanganui National Park.

To the west of Ohakune is the tiny settlement of Pipiriki, situated on the banks of the Whanganui River. The final destination for the five day Whanganui journey, Pipiriki is the main entry point for day trips to the famous Bridge to Nowhere.

Heading east from Ohakune on the Volcanic Loop scenic drive provides fantastic views of Mt Ruapehu, passing through Waiouru, home to the New Zealand Army and the gateway to the Rangipo Desert.