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Libby has dabbled in various things and is currently the Department of Conservation's operations manager for Tongariro.
There's excitement around the Ruapehu District that someone new might soon have the keys to the historic Chateau Tongariro. Local mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand's most popular hikes. Adam enjoyed it so much he did it twice! But that's not the whole story: he believes local tourism businesses are profiteering and taking advantage of ill-informed travellers. If you'd like to know how to save money, tune in to hear Adam's take on New Zealand tourism. He might be sick but he's not going down without a fight!Support the show and access the Lost & Found section, as Alun's been breaking into his own house with a screwdriver. Adam also reveals where he'll be spending Alun's birthday. Surprise, surprise!Submit your travel stories: https://www.tripologypodcast.com/talesofatripNeed travel insurance? We recommend SafetyWing! Click here to get started: https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=26035801&utm_source=26035801&utm_medium=AmbassadorRequire an onward flight? Please use this fantastic flight rental service: https://onwardticket.com/tripologypodcastDiscord: https://discord.gg/dFbBrw8KInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tripologypodcast/Website: https://www.tripologypodcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tripologypodcastX: https://x.com/tripologypod
'Alpine Divorce' is a new phenomenon that is common enough to exist. Couples going on hikes or tramps reach exhaustion at different stages, leading to one person being left behind. An exhaustion which now seems to have extended to relationships. Adrift NZ Owner and Tongariro Crossing Guide told Heather du Plessis-Allan that being under physical stress is likely to heighten tensions in strained relationships. 'When you do that, the best of the worst comes out of you.' LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Native plants are making a comeback in the fire-charred areas of Tongariro National Park, but invasive weeds and animal pests pose a risk to a full recovery. Taranaki Whanganui reporter Robin Martin reports.
Manawatu school bus woes, Tongariro fire recovery, and the end of the old Opiki toll bridge.
Tourism-dependent businesses in the central North Island town of Waimarino have faced hard times since November's fire in Tongariro National Park. The blaze, which burned through almost 3000 hectares, kept the popular Tongariro Crossing closed for over a week and was then followed by a smaller fire in December, as well as wet weather. Although February has so far proven kinder, many say a good dumping of winter snow is needed to get the area, and its tills, humming again. Jimmy Ellingham reports.
The chateau has sat empty since it was closed in February 2023 due to its earthquake risk.
There are discussions around bidders potentially giving Chateau Tongariro a fix-up. A Government response to a petition confirms the Department of Conservation's been urged to speak with investors and iwi to potentially fund restoration for the heritage-listed hotel. Demolition still remains an option. Adrift Tongariro Guiding owner Stewart Barclay told Heather du Plessis-Allan that it's significant for employment - and would pay for itself over time. He says it's essential for tourism, which brings money in to the local area. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ben Boland is a born-and-bred Kiwi who didn't grow up loving the outdoors - and once weighed close to 190kg. He shares how getting active in his 30s led him to walking tracks he never imagined tackling, starting with a humbling first Tongariro Alpine Crossing done mid–weight loss and with minimal planning. Since then he's done the Tongariro Crossing and Tongariro Northern Circuit several times. He breaks down the track in details from shuttles and direction choices to points of interest like the Devil's Staircase, Red Crater, the Emerald Lakes. Ben shares more details about the 3-day Tongariro Northern Circuit, a Great Walk that covers vastly unique terrain on each day of the hike. Ben shares advice from personal experience on when to turn back, winter conditions, gear choices, hiking poles, and carrying better food. Abigail & Isaac are kayaking for 1,000km from Cape Reinga to Tauranga in Feb-Mar 2026 to raise $20,000 for mental health and the ocean. Join the community to follow our journey closely, donate or paddle with us.
On this week's AidStation, we bring you an excellent chat Ali P had with Michael Sutton at The Goat Tongariro. Michael, if you will remember, has represented New Zealand multiple times at the World Mountain Running Championships, and has recently launched The Kea Mountain Running Series to bring the shorter, harder, vertier stuff to the people. You may also be familiar with Michael from his excellent conversation on episode 349 with Matt. Ali also catches up with 261 Fearless' Kate Southern on the start line for her first Goat adventure. In excellent news, we celebrate Andrew McDowall's selection for the 2026 24-hour IAU Asia Oceania Championships, and pose the question, “How can we help these athletes with the high financial burden of representing their country?” All this, Panic Math, and more on the AidStation . Excellent Stuff.Dirt Church Radio – Best Enjoyed Running.--- --- --- Episode Links The Kea Mountain SeriesMichael Sutton on DCR episode 349Sign up for the DCR AidStation newsletter.Dirt Church Radio on InstagramDirt Church Radio on FacebookFurther Faster New ZealandEnjoy!Music by Andrew McDowall, Digicake
DOC is investigating after shuttle operators dropped hikers at the start of the Tongariro Alpine crossing despite a bad weather forecast, Meaning they shouldn't be on the track. Transport operators must adhere to official NIWA advisories and not take anyone to the walk if there's a bad forecast. Meanwhile multiple blazes have broken out in Tongariro, just a month after another massive wildfire ripped through three thousand hectares of the national park. Tongariro Operations Manager Libby O'Brien spoke to Lisa Owen.
The fire burning in Tongariro National Park is now contained, but the after effects are still taking a toll on the tourist hotspot's economy. It's the second major fire in just a month -- the first of which seared some 3000 hectares of the world heritage site national park. Jimmy Ellingham reports
Firefighters are scrambling to contain several fires burning in Tongariro National Park. More than a dozen fire vehicles plus five choppers are fighting the blaze, which is estimated to be 100 hectares. It comes just a month after another massive wildfire ripped through 3000 hectares of the national park. Fire and Emergency's director of operations Brendan Nally spoke to Lisa Owen.
Ruapehu District Council mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Corin Dann about the latest fire to hit the Tongariro National Park region.
The Tongariro fire earlier this month left nearly 3,000 hectares of the national park scorched.
Il devastante tornado EF-4, uscito dagli schermi dei film hollywoodiani per abbattersi sulle strade della città brasiliana di Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, è stato il più potente tornado nella storia recente del Brasile. Il vento, con una velocità fino a 300 km/h, ha ridotto in macerie interi quartieri. Ha lasciato circa un migliaio di residenti senza tetto e ha causato la morte di 6 persone. "Il vento ha portato via tutto, tranne la voglia di vivere", dicono i residenti locali, mentre ripuliscono le macerie insieme ai volontari.Ma la tragedia brasiliana è solo un episodio della crisi climatica globale, che sta diventando ogni giorno più grave:– L'incendio nel parco nazionale di Tongariro, dove è stata girata la trilogia "Il Signore degli Anelli", ha distrutto 2800 ettari di natura unica, Nuova Zelanda;– Il freddo artico ha colpito gli Stati Uniti: la Florida è stata colpita da una gelata di -3 °C e a Miami gli iguana congelati cadevano dagli alberi;– Il Canada è stato colpito da una rara tempesta di neve precoce, che non si vedeva da oltre mezzo secolo;– La regione di Sanriku in Giappone ha subito una serie di 37 terremoti in poco più di 24 ore, tra cui tre forti scosse di magnitudo superiore a 6,0;– Due potentissimi tifoni si sono abbattuti consecutivamente sulle Filippine: "Kalmaegi" ha causato 232 vittime, mentre il tifone "Fung-Wong" ha provocato la morte di altre 25 persone;– L'Iran sta vivendo una siccità storica: i bacini idrici di Teheran sono pieni per meno del 10%;– In Cina è crollato parzialmente il "ponte tra le nuvole" di Hongqi, recentemente costruito nella provincia di Sichuan.Tutti questi eventi non sono casuali, ma anelli di una catena di cambiamenti climatici globali. Vediamo come fenomeni meteorologici estremi, attività sismica e catastrofi naturali stanno diventando la norma, e le moderne tecnologie non garantiscono più la sicurezza.Ma c'è una notizia che dà speranza: è già operativo il Centro di ricerca globale “ALLATRA”, una piattaforma scientifica internazionale dove gli scienziati, senza politici e sponsor, cercano soluzioni reali alla crisi climatica. Tutti i dati sono di dominio pubblico. È un'occasione per trovare una via d'uscita.
On the 8th of November, a wildfire tore through 3000 hectares of Tongariro National Park, before being extinguished four days later. The fire resulted in multiple walks in the region to be closed, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. However, as of today, many of these tracks have reopened. However, the full extent of the fire on the region's ecosystem is yet to be fully investigated. On Friday, News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host Joel spoke to George Perry, a Professor in the School of Environment at the University of Auckland, about this wildfire, and how detrimental this fire will be on the region's ecosystem, from what we are currently seeing
The iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing reopens today after a fire tore through the national park, burning about three thousand hectares of scrub. DOC's Director of Heritage and Visitors, Catherine Wilson spoke to Corin Dann.
This week on the Monday Wire: For our weekly catch-up with the ACT Party, News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host Joel spoke to MP Simon Court about charter schools, changes to the Education and Training Act, removing school boards' responsibilities to adhere to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the Regulatory Standards Bill passing into law. Producer Alex spoke to Greenpeace Campaigner Gen Toop about the passing of the Regulatory Standards Bill into an Act last week, and what it means for corporate interests over the environment in Aotearoa New Zealand. Joel spoke to George Perry, a Professor in the School of Environment at the University of Auckland, about the recent Tongariro wildfires that have devastated the region. And Alex spoke to Professor in Public Health at the University of Auckland, Chris Bullen, about New Zealand dropping in the Global Tobacco Interference Index rankings, and what that means for smoking policy and health in Aotearoa. Whakarongo mai!
On the 8th of November, a wildfire tore through 3000 hectares of Tongariro National Park, before being extinguished four days later. The fire resulted in multiple walks in the region to be closed, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. However, as of today, many of these tracks have reopened. However, the full extent of the fire on the region's ecosystem is yet to be fully investigated. On Friday, News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host Joel spoke to George Perry, a Professor in the School of Environment at the University of Auckland, about this wildfire, and how detrimental this fire will be on the region's ecosystem, from what we are currently seeing
Drones with thermal imaging equipment have been checking the flanks of the big burn at Tongariro National Park for hotspots, and Department of Conservation fire crews remain on duty today. At the height of the blaze, FENZ firefighters and DOC crews have been supported by local volunteer who opened marae up to evacuees, helped feed workers and co-ordinate operations. Bubs Smith from Ngati Hikairo ki Tongariro, the guardian hapu, is one of them and spoke to Lisa Owen.
It's likely to be at least a week until some of the key tracks in Tongariro National Park reopen after a wildfire tore through thousands of hectares of land. Prolonged periods of precious rain have been a big help in quelling the huge blaze, but not before it severely disrupted the region's tourism businesses as they head into peak season, and had an as-yet untold impact on the park's flora and fauna. The wet weather has now eased enough for a helicopter to go up to assess the damage, and give us an indication how long it may take to rejuvinate. Robin Martin reports from Waimarino.
Forest and Bird says the fire in Tongariro National Park will have had a severe impact on native wildlife and their habitats, and that regeneration could take years. Forest & Bird's Regional Conservation Manager, Dean Baigent spoke to Corin Dann.
Nearly 3,000 hectares of Tongariro National Park have been turned to ash by fires that started on Saturday. That's about three thousand full size rugby pitches of old growth and native plants burnt - some completely. As the ash starts to settle, the process of understanding what has been lost is being revealed, Jesse is joined by Project Tongariro Chief Executive Kiri Te Wano.
Crews fighting the fire at Tongariro National Park are reinforcing containment lines after the blaze burned through more than 2800 hectares. Rain has helped their efforts, along with helicopters and planes water bombing the area. FENZ says the focus is now on hard physical work on the ground. Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Nigel Dravitzki spoke to Lisa Owen.
A tourist helicoptered out of the Tongariro National Park to avoid the fire burning through the region has described the dramatic moments he realised there was danger in the air. Matthias Gerold was evacuated to Whakapapa village, and was then evacuated from there as the blaze continued. Wet weather has provided hope today for business owners nearby, who worry a long-term closure of the Tongariro Crossing could prove catastrophic for the region. This afternoon emergency services delivered good news, saying there's a significant improvement in conditions and residents are allowed to return to Whakapapa. Jimmy Ellingham filed this report from Waimarino.
A day of rain has put out all visible signs of a fire that burned through 2800 hectares of Tongariro National Park. Jimmy Ellingham is in Waimarino and spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Kathryn Grham and Ed McKnight. First up, they discuss the latest turn in the Te Pati Maori saga with Waatea News host and journalist Dale Husband. Does the expulsion of MPs Mariameno Kapa-Kingi and Takuta Ferris end the stoush? Then, the panel talks to two people who have witnessed first-hand the terrible Tongariro fires over the weekend.
Rainfall today at Tongariro National Park has helped dampen the fire that's rampaged across nearly 3000 hectares since Saturday. Fire and Emergency says a flyover his afternoon's revealed no signs of live fire. Crews will use thermal imaging to detect hotspots tonight - which they'll target tomorrow. Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton says they'll investigate what caused the fire. He says hundreds of hectares will need to be restored - but most areas damaged had little public access. "Organised tracks will be open to the public as soon as we get that 7 days lifted...and when it's safe to do so." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This podcast description was blatantly written by AI... Join Clint, Meg, and Dan with Ash London as they delve into an eventful week packed with heated discussions, light-hearted banter, and heartwarming moments! From the Tongariro fires and Uber drivers' plight to hilarious debates on Christmas decorations, unwanted fitness tips, and the highs and lows of sports. Plus, discover why dating apps might be on the decline. Catch all the excitement, laughter, and the occasional F-bomb in this spirited episode! 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Opening02:19 Celebrity Gossip and Personal Anecdotes05:17 Powerball Lottery Discussion13:51 Listener Interaction and Personal Stories18:31 Naughty at 6:40 Segment23:01 Jelly Roll Concert Cancellation30:17 Ed Sheeran Ticket Giveaway37:21 Tongariro Fires News Update42:14 Fitness Goals and Relationship Dynamics48:36 Premature Christmas Decorations Debate54:53 Dating Apps: Are They Dead?01:04:59 Uber Drivers and Minimum Wage Issues01:08:26 Things We Love: Small Joys in Life
A wall of smoke from the Tongariro National Park fire is providing a worrying vista for a central plateau village. Jimmy Ellingham reports.
The fire has so far burned through up to 2000 hectares
The fire has so far burned through up to 2000 hectares
Crews are battling a fire that's engulfed 2000 hectares of Tongariro National Park. Fire and Emergency commander Glen Varcoe spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Locals and hikers have been forced to evacuate, as a wall of fire sweeps across the tussock of Tongariro National Park. Ruapehu District Council mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Corin Dann.
There could be fresh hope for the future of the iconic Chateau Tongariro, following a major Government shake-up of earthquake-prone building rules. Ruapehu District mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Corin Dann.
Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton hopes a 15,000 strong petition presented to Parliament on Tuesday can help save the historic Chateau Tongariro Hotel. Kirton spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Ruapehu's mayor is hoping to reach out to investors to save the historic Chateau Tongariro. A petition with over 15,000 signatures was presented to MPs in Wellington today, as the chateau's future hangs in the balance. Weston Kirton says he wants the Government to break down the barriers preventing the building from getting fixed and provide a pathway for the future. "We know that there are investors out there who are prepared to put forward their money towards this. We're not talking about taxpayers funding this project, we're talking about getting a platform for investors." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Save our chateau". That's the message Ruapehu's mayor is hoping politicians will hear tomorrow when he drops a petition off to parliament signed by thousands of people. The petition is urging the government to act swiftly to reopen Chateau Tongariro as soon as possible. The 96-year-old building was closed in February 2023 due to its earthquake risk, leaving a big hole in the local economy. Jimmy Ellingham reports.
This week for Our Changing World, we're doing things a little differently and we catch up with Claire Concannon in person! Claire has been out and about in the central North Island learning about a community conservation project.
It's a worrying time for residents from 70 homes - as the Tauranga-Taupō River is threatening to breach its bank. The swollen river has flooded after a night of heavy rain, thunderstorm warnings and strong winds across much of the country. Taupō District Council's Tūrangi-Tongariro ward Councillor Sandra Greenslade spoke to Corin Dann.
One of the country's Great Walks will not be opening as usual this season. The Department of Conservation is working with local hapu on a replacement for Oturere Hut on the Tongariro Northern Circuit. Operations manager for Tongariro Libby O'Brien spoke to Corin Dann.
The Conservation Minister says any decision around the closed Tongariro Chateau won't be taken lightly. Budget 2025 labelled the heritage-listed site in the shadow of Mount Ruapehu a 'fiscal risk'. All options are on the table, including demolition. Tama Potaka says it's an iconic building and very important to the area. He says a decision on its future will be made in due course. "It's definitely not years - we need to be a Government of action, we've taken action around a couple of those concessions in that beautiful part of the world." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Tongariro National Park is home to outdoor activities including the world-renowned Alpine Crossing , which thousands of people walk each year.
The potential new owner of the Whakapapa ski field has expressed interest in operating the famous Chateau Tongariro hotel. Whakapapa Holdings director Tom Elworthy spoke to Paddy Gower.
Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – A Journey of Intention and Epiphany In this episode, I take you on the breathtaking journey of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand's most iconic hikes. This adventure was more than just a physical challenge—it was a powerful reminder of what it means to live with intention. As I climbed through rugged landscapes and volcanic terrain, I experienced profound moments of clarity about who I am, what I do, and how I want to live. These epiphanies have deeply impacted not only my personal path but also what I plan to pursue professionally for the rest of my life. I'm sharing this experience to inspire you to think about your own journey. How can you be more intentional about the person you want to become? What steps can you take to shape your life with purpose and passion? Tune in for a raw, reflective, and inspiring conversation as I unpack the lessons and insights from this epic hike—and how they can empower you to walk your own path with greater clarity and conviction. Highlights: The transformational power of stepping out of your comfort zone Why intentional living is the key to fulfillment and purpose Personal epiphanies that are reshaping my life's work Encouragement for YOU to embrace your journey with courage and intention Let's explore what it truly means to move forward with purpose. Listen now!
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A new study has found that native plants in Tongariro National Park are being hit hard by the spread of invasive heather, with a 40 to 50 percent decline in native species in some areas. Dr Julie Deslippe, a senior lecturer in biological sciences at Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington joined Jesse.
Any government investment in reviving the mothballed historic Tongariro Chateau will end up costing it financially according to advice from the Department of Conservation. A briefing paper to the Minister recommended shelving plans to find an investor, instead cabinet will decide what to do next. The deteriorating building, that is in urgent need of earthquake strengthening closed in February in 2023 and DOC's been spending about 2 million dollars a year maintaining it and the grounds. The DOC briefing documents put a figure on how much the government would need to spend to repair and strengthen the Chateau, but that number is blacked out. But it concludes the end result will be net negative value, Ruapehu District mayor Weston Kirton spoke to Lisa Owen.