Fire and Ice

One woman’s quest to uncover secrets in a mountain world

What lies off-track in Tongariro National Park? This engrossing book contains stories of ghosts, fires, avalanches, plane wrecks, sly grogging, secret spots and more from around Ngāuruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu — a place of wild and chaotic grandeur.

This well-illustrated and lively exploration of the history of Ruapehu is told by a self-confessed ‘Ruapehu addict’ who has an uncanny talent for persuading a cast of great characters to join her on her explorations and investigations. With more than 200 historic and present-day images and 25 maps, it’s a must-have for all who love skiing, climbing and tramping around this mighty mountain.

To look inside, click here.

‘Aotearoa’s answer to Bill Bryson’ — David Slack

‘Diligently researched, excellently presented’ — Tony Orman, Council of Outdoor Recreation Associations of NZ

‘It’s a damned good looking book, destined to be among the year’s best, appealing to trampers, mountaineers, climbers, ski-ers, Tongaririo crossers, local iwi and other citizens of the plateau, and really anyone who appreciates an intelligently told natural history.’ — Steve Braunias, Newsroom

‘Absolutely riveting stories’ — The Spinoff

‘Local secrets and mysteries revealed’ — Ruapehu Bulletin

‘Compelling’ — Claire Williamson, NZ Listener