The northern slopes of Tongariro, below Ketetahi. Lake Otamangakau in the distance. Photo NC.

Below Ketetahi Hut the track first descends relatively gently through the tussockland that is typical of the north and western parts of the park at these altitudes. The last section is walked through podocarp forest rich in Hall's totara, mountain toatoa and kaikawaka (native mountain cedar).