Walking through volcanic landscape is awe-inspiring. The landscape around Mount Tongariro exploded into life (or death) at a time when glaciers covered most of this area 340,000 years ago. A lava flow was obstructed by a glacier that filled the valley. The hot molten lava was diverted and grew into a mound that is still distinct as Pukekaikiore. In recent times, 18,000 years ago, the glacier retreated leaving a valley behind.
Red Crater is one of the youngest vents in the Tongariro district. It exploded into life about 10,000 years ago and has remained active ever since. The lava flows into the central crater may be as young as 200 years old.