It was simply magnificent! If you like mountainous landscapes and especially LOTR ... This is the perfect place. My favorite NZ hike. However, it is deserved because quite difficult, no path traced but Campermate is enough to orient yourself. We went there at the end of January, there were a few patches of ice and snow that we could easily get around. Around 5h round trip, having taken the chairlift

We left the first chairlift on foot to take a stroll in the Mordor with a small bottle of water. And we finally went up to the Mordor gate. It was very exhausting but it is done. About 2:15 to arrive at the top but it's worth it. A magical view of the mountain of destiny.

W A R N I N G ! No Access from Tukino Skifield when there is snow on the Mountain. Don't go there unless you have alpine experience and alpine gear (Spikes, pickles, ropes). Do not underestimate the hazards of a mountain like we did. It could be that there's access via Whakapapa. (Dome Access)

It's a difficult hike (dangerous even) to Mt Ruapehu without a guide, but just keep an eye on the groups that take off in the morning and follow their footsteps. The view from the top (and anywhere in between, really) make you feel so puny in this world. Have good footwear, drink and food with you! Plus, don't forget the sunscreen - UV is stronger in the mountains!

You can easily imagine the movie "Lord of the Rings" with the scenes from Mordor if you stand at this crater. As is Frodo ist just about to walk by.