Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
angi. A barren landscape of reddish sand with small clumps of tussock,
Rangipo Desert
isn't
actually a desert. This unique landscape is in fact the result of two million years of volcan-
ic eruptions - especially the Taupo eruption about 2000 years ago which coated the land
with thick deposits of pumice and destroyed all vegetation. In winter, the road occasion-
ally closes due to snow.
Housed in a large, concrete bunker at the south end of the township, the
National Army
the NZ army and its various campaigns, from colonial times to the present. Moving stories
are told through displays of arms, uniforms, medals and memorabilia.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Taihape & Around
POP 1500
Taihape, 20km south of Waiouru, enjoys the dubious distinction of being the Gumboot
Capital of the World, celebrated with - you guessed it - a giant corrugated gumboot on
the main road. It is also the access point for
Mokai Gravity Canyon
( 06-388 9109, 0800 802 864;
www.gravitycanyon.co.nz
;
332 Mokai Rd; 9am-5pm)
, 20km southeast, where adrenaline-junkies
can take a 1km, 170m-high flying-fox ride at speeds of up to 160km/h ($155); dive from
the North Island's highest bridge bungy (80m, $179); or freefall for 50m on a tandem
swing ($159). Multi-thrill packages are available.
venture centre and lodge 32km to the northeast (follow the signs from Taihape's Gretna
Hotel). Their popular half-day white-water rafting trip takes in the thrilling Grade V rap-
ids of the Rangitikei River ($175). Free-style horse treks are also offered, which take in
views of Mt Ruapehu, the Ruahine Range and the Rangitikei River (two hours $109, half-
day $175). Lodge accommodation (from $31) is also offered, as are meals in the on-site
restaurant, featuring fresh ingredients from the lodge's gardens.
For more information, visit
www.taihape.co.nz
.
