Chateau Tongariro, New Zealand

This chateau was built in 1929 and was originally intended as a hostel for hikers.

It is now near the  Whakapapa skifield on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu and within  the boundary of the Tongariro National Park



We had afternoon tea in the lounge several times, and it is very pleasant in winter with the log fires burning.



The interior is still as ornate as it had been in the 1930's.  The chairs are very comfortable, and the atmosphere pleasant.

Mount Ngauruhoe can be seen through the window of the lounge.  This was used in filming Lord of the Rings.