Hauhungatahi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hauhungatahi |
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Hauhungatahi seen from Mount Ruapehu
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,521 m (4,990 ft) |
| Prominence | approx 400 m (1,300 ft) |
| Naming | |
| Language of name | Māori |
| Geography | |
 Hauhungatahi
Location in North Island
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| Topo map | nz49931 |
| Geology | |
| Volcanic arc/belt | Taupo Volcanic Zone |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Tramping from the west, starting near Erua |
Hauhungatahi is an old, worn-down volcano found in the southern part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone in New Zealand. It sits about 11 kilometers (7 miles) northwest of Mount Ruapehu. Even though it's not as famous as some other mountains, Hauhungatahi is quite tall. It reaches 1,521 meters (4,990 feet) high. Only a few other volcanoes in New Zealand are taller, like Ruapehu and Taranaki/Egmont.
This volcano was built on top of ancient Mesozoic sea rocks that were pushed upwards. The lava that erupted from Hauhungatahi is about 900,000 years old. This makes it more than three times older than its neighbor, Mount Ruapehu.
Hauhungatahi: New Zealand's Ancient Volcano
Hauhungatahi is a fascinating volcano that has been shaped by time. When we say it's an "eroded" volcano, it means that wind, rain, and ice have slowly worn away its original shape over many thousands of years. This process has made it look different from a classic cone-shaped volcano.
The mountain is part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone. This is a large area in New Zealand where there are many volcanoes. It stretches from Mount Ruapehu in the south all the way to White Island in the north. This zone is known for its volcanic activity, even if Hauhungatahi itself hasn't erupted in a very long time.
Where is Hauhungatahi Located?
Hauhungatahi is located in the western part of Tongariro National Park. This park is a very special place in New Zealand. It is famous for its amazing landscapes, including several active volcanoes. The park is also important to the Māori people.
A large area around Hauhungatahi, covering about 8,498 hectares (32.8 square miles), has been set aside as a Wilderness Area since 1966. A Wilderness Area is a place where nature is protected. There are no roads, buildings, or other human-made structures allowed. This helps keep the environment wild and untouched. It's one of two such special areas within Tongariro National Park.
Exploring Hauhungatahi
If you want to reach the top of Hauhungatahi, the usual way is to go tramping (which is like hiking) from the west side. The journey often starts near a place called Erua. Along the way, you might follow parts of an old track.
However, the path can be a bit challenging. You might need to push through overgrown plants and walk through some wet, boggy areas. Eventually, you'll reach the "bush line" at about 1,200 meters (3,900 feet). This is where the tall trees stop growing, and the landscape opens up onto the summit plateau. From there, it's a bit easier to walk eastward to the very top.
Once you reach the summit of Hauhungatahi, you'll be rewarded with amazing views. You can see other famous peaks in the park, including Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro. It's a great way to see the beauty of New Zealand's volcanic landscape.
