The Olive Rabbit is 500m from the Tongariro River Trail, close enough to leave the car behind and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the river environs. Or travel further south to Tree Trunk Gorge and enjoy the challenge of an uphill, downhill journey through native forest, fords and bridges.
A soak in the spa with a mulled wine will just top off your experience. Additional options can include trout fishing, geothermal pools, golf at Turangi Golf Course, & hiking.
Tongariro River Trail (1 - 2 ½ hrs)
“Left and left …,” we say! Ride the Tongariro Trail from The Olive Rabbit.
Leave your car at our place and ride 500 m and up onto the river bank to the Trail. Turn right down to the Tongariro National Trout Centre and further to the Red Hut Swing Bridge. Crossing the bridge will bring you on the other side of the famous Tongariro River where you can slowly return to the Major Jones Bridge; another swing bridge to add to the joy. The track meanders through a mix of forest and farmland before hitting back to some form of civilisation. Then there are two options:
1. Return to The Olive Rabbit, OR
2. Don’t cross the Major Jones but carry on towards the amazing lookout which climbs above the river. Then down to the SH1 Bridge and back along the trail to the Major Jones Bridge: your landmark for turning off the traick and back to The Olive Rabbit.
Tree Trunk Gorge (2 - 4hrs)
From SH1, ride 5kms to the gorge, across the bridge and left into Tree Trunk Gorge. The track weaves through native forest, crosses four fords plus two bridges: all landmarks for your journey. Having a picnic on board could be fun and welcomed at a small rest area before crossing another bridge to the Pillars of Hercules and upwards and onwards to SH1 again, and turning left back towards your parked car.
To book, hit the BOOK NOW button book two consecutive nights in one of our rooms. Prices valid until April '24
