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Tongariro National Park plateau lodge
Explore Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park
Close to Tongariro National Park, Mt Ruapehu, and local walking tracks

Community Connection

Proudly New Zealand Owned & Operated Since 1993

Our story, our place, our people


Plateau Lodge is proudly New Zealand owned and operated, and has been part of Waimarino – National Park Village since 1993.

We’re Andrea and Zeus Messenger, and together with our children, Abby and Cody, we’re the family behind Plateau Lodge. Our kids represent the third generation to grow up exploring this incredible backyard, and it’s a place we’re deeply connected to. Plateau Lodge began life as a backpackers and has evolved over the years into the modern, welcoming accommodation it is today. We now proudly offer 22 rooms, including:

As locals, we know Waimarino and National Park Village inside out. From easy adventures for families with small children to activities that suit teenagers and more adventurous travellers, we’re always happy to help guests find experiences that match their energy and interests.

Community Connection

Social Responsibility & The Environment

At Plateau Lodge, our social responsibility and environmental stewardship are at the forefront.  The heart of our is our dedication to nurturing our community, preserving the environment, and enhancing the well-being of all stakeholders.  From sustainable supply chains to empowering our team to make a positive impact, we strive to integrate these principles into every aspect of our operations.

Below are some of the programmes and initiatives we are involved in.  Join us in our commitment to creating a more caring and sustainable world.

Plateau Lodge is fully owned and operated by Ruapehu locals, and we genuinely believe Waimarino – National Park Village is one of the best places to visit when escaping everyday life, whether you’re travelling from elsewhere in New Zealand or overseas.

Community matters to us. We actively support and are involved in:

  • Local business networks

  • School and education committees

  • Nature and conservation program

  • Community groups and charities across the region

  • From seeking Charitable Contributions or sponsorship 

Plateau Lodge isn’t just where we work — it’s part of who we are

Many of our initiatives have evolved organically, stemming from longstanding partnerships with charitable organisations.  Others are fueled by our dedication to safeguarding the environment we cherish.  Our unwavering commitment to minimising our ecological footprint has inspired us and is aimed at preserving New Zealand’s pristine beauty and upholding its status as 100% PURE.

Shuttle services & transport support

To make exploring easy, we offer:

  • Shuttles to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, departing between 5:45am and 9:30am, with return services from 1:30pm to 5:30pm

  • Shuttles to the Tongariro Northern Circuit

  • Free car and baggage storage for guests using shuttle services

  • Daily shuttles to ski areas and Tongariro National Park (seasonal)

Our commitment to sustainability

We Tread Lightly we’re committed to protecting the environment and caring for the place we call home.

At Plateau Lodge, we’ve implemented various initiatives focused on waste reduction and product recycling. Our commitment extends to minimizing our carbon footprint, adopting strategic procurement practices, and conserving water.

We collaborate with environmental groups and actively engage our employees through a teamwork schemes, fostering a collective dedication to sustainability.

Furthermore, any electricity sourced from the grid is from renewable energy sources.

 Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and one we’re genuinely excited to be part of.

We align with the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment, which aims to see every New Zealand tourism business committed to sustainability.

We work only with certified and accredited manufacturers who can confirm their products are sustainably produced.

Plateau Lodge is Qualmark certified, meeting the Sustainable Tourism Business (STB) criteria recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)


EV charging & sustainable transport

Waimarino – National Park Village has over 15 EV charging stations, located at the Park & Ride on Findlay Street, just a 2-minute drive from Plateau Lodge.

For sustainable transport options from Taupō, Tūrangi, or the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, we recommend My Waka Your Waka.