Outstanding Backpackers
This is a very clean and very beautiful lodge to stay in if you're visiting the National Park. However the various activities and food is a bit expensive.
The staff were all very friendly and helpful, but there were times when you could be standing at the counter waiting for them to finish their conversation and basically get ignored until they decide to attend to you.
There is a very big and clean common kitchen and also shuttle services to the various walks. There're also bikes to rent and a mini spa pool in the middle.
The staff was very kind to extend my check out time when I returned late from the sunrise walk.
Definitely worth paying the extra dollar to stay here if you're passing through or doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing!