Mordorr 🌋

The North Island greeted us with endless rain – a full day and night of it. This made us even more worried about our plan to tackle the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, known for its challenging conditions. The thought of hiking through Mordor (yes, that Mordor from The Lord of the Rings) in bad weather wasn’t exactly comforting.

We spent the evening at a cozy campsite that felt more like a mountain lodge. Together with a group of Poles and Czechs we met there, we debated whether to go for it or play it safe. By morning, warnings were everywhere: "Alpine Crossing strongly discouraged due to high winds and rain." But we decided to give it a try - and it turned out to be the right call!

The trail itself was breathtaking and the weather sunny ☀️ with great visibility (though super windy 🌬️ )

Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom, stood dramatically against the stormy sky. Its perfect volcanic cone made it clear why it was chosen for the movies.
Emerald Lakes were otherworldly, their vibrant green hues created by dissolved minerals from the volcanic rocks. The sulfur smell? Strong, but part of the experience.
Blue Lake, sacred to the Māori, offered a serene contrast with its calm, deep blue surface.
The wind was fierce, making the climb feel even more epic. Time was our enemy, as the national park’s 4-hour parking limit forced us to complete the 6-hour trek in record time. Maciek, channeling his inner Frodo 🧌, practically sprinted down the mountain to save our camper from a parking ticket. He made it just in time, and somehow, the day ended with both relief and laughter.

Tongariro didn’t make it easy, but it was absolutely worth it. This was the kind of day that will stay with us forever.Læs mere