Leaving Whakahoro we go back into the Tongariro National park and head to the start of the Tongariro Crossing. It's not actually possible to do the whole crossing because the mountain keeps erupting but walking from Mangatepopo we skirt round Mt Ngauruhoe's conical volcanic dome (better known from Lord of The Rings as Mt Doom. Levelling off then climbing to the saddle between Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. It's a clear day with warm sunshine but as we climb there's a strong alpine wind chilling us even as the climb warms us.
It's spectactular scenery- perhaps a little like the surface of Mars for there's nothing in the way of vegetation but the colours of the rock are amazing. Then there's Emerald lakes which we scramble down to- truly emerald in colour, odiferous steam escaping from vents nearby. Back up to the saddle and a detour track up to the Tongariro summit- a ragged mountain due to many eruptions. Behind it, still with some snow on it is Mt Ruapehu. Then there's only 2 hours to make it back to the bus so it's an express descent and there's a cold beer waiting for us- much appreciated after 6+ hours walking.
Next day is a chance for the muscles to recover as we drive on down to Wellington.
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