Wild About New Zealand Season 1 Episode 6 Tongariro & Whanganui

Tongariro & Whanganui, the sixth episode of the first season of Wild About New Zealand, takes us on a journey through two of New Zealand’s most stunning national parks – the Tongariro National Park and the Whanganui National Park.

The show kicks off with host Glen Hart traveling to Tongariro National Park, which is home to three active volcanoes - Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu. The park has a fascinating geological history, and Glen takes us on a tour of the park to explore the unique landscapes and geothermal features that make it stand out. He takes us to the base of Mount Ngauruhoe where we see a group of adventurous hikers attempting to climb the mountain’s steep slopes.

Glen also visits the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is a popular hiking trail that takes you through some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the park. He provides some interesting insights into the area's history and shows us some stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. He also talks to some of the hikers on the trail to find out what attracts them to this challenging hike.

Moving on from Tongariro, the show switches its focus to the Whanganui National Park, which is home to the stunning Whanganui River. This river is considered one of the most sacred rivers in New Zealand by the Maori people, and Glen provides an insightful look into the river's significance to the Maori culture.

Glen sets off to explore the river by canoe, one of the most popular ways to experience it. He meets up with a group of local Maori guides who take him on a journey down the river, telling stories of the river's history and the importance of the surrounding flora and fauna to their culture. He also learns about the impact of invasive species such as the wild goats and stoats that threaten the habitat of the native birds in the area.

Next, the show introduces us to a local conservation group who are working to protect the birds living in the area, such as the endangered whio (blue duck) and North Island brown kiwi. The team takes us on their daily routine, showing us how they trap and monitor the bird populations in the park. We learn how they are using innovative techniques and technology to protect these species and preserve the delicate ecosystem of the park.

The episode concludes with Glen meeting up with some of the people who call this beautiful part of New Zealand home. He visits a local sheep farm and talks to the owners about how they are making an effort to preserve the natural environment around them while still running a successful farming operation. He also talks to a group of young aspiring conservationists who are determined to make a difference in protecting the natural heritage of New Zealand.

Tongariro & Whanganui is a beautifully shot, informative and entertaining episode of Wild About New Zealand. It provides a fascinating look at the unique landscapes and cultural heritage of two of New Zealand’s most stunning national parks. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in the natural environment, history, and culture of the country.