SH1 closure could be boon for RuapehuPHOTO: STEPH RANGI/STUFF Hawkes Bay couple Karen and Gus Waterman take in the scenery from the curious Bridge to Nowhere which is only accessible by boat. Several small towns in the Ruapehu region that are normally off the beaten track, including Ohakune and National Park, are on the diversion. It means motorists will have an extra 50km to drive, around the western side of three Central Plateau volcanoes; Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro. Some of the cafés have breathtaking views of Mt Ngauruhoe and Tongariro National Park. People could also indulge in a high tea at the Chateau, or drop by one of the numerous cafés and restaurants in National Park Village or Ohakune.

Source: Stuff March 05, 2018 20:37 UTC