Hiking in New Zealand: Tongariro Alpine Crossing by National Park Shuttles

NOTE: Before you consider booking. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this trek. We do not transfer infants, toddlers or children under the age of 7 years.

Duration from Private Car Park to start of trek, Mangatepopo

20 km or approximately 35 mins.

Trip Details:

National Park Shuttles is the only Tangata Whenua (local people) operator from the National Park Village, offering a fantastic transport journey departing from the ONLY all day carpark with a one-way transport shuttle service to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This secure car park located on State Highway 46, road end of the Ketetahi track. Ride with us and park your car stress-FREE.

Trek across volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts – steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, alpine vegetation and vivid crater lakes, all with stunning views. This challenging trip begins at 1120 m, climbs the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, through South Crater before climbing again to Red Crater, the highest point on the crossing at 1886 m.

You will then descend on a volcanic rock scree track to the vivid Emerald Lakes, known as Ngarotopounamu (greenstone-hued lakes). After passing Blue Lake, also known as Te Wai-whakaata-o-te-Rangihiroa (Rangihiroa’s mirror), the track sidles around the northern slope of Tongariro, then descends in a zigzag track down to the road end at 760 m.

• We pick you up from the private secure car park. Note this car park has security cameras and is manned by security staff
• No roadside parking on the main highway which is not secure and unsafe
• A tranquil drive to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in comfort
• We promote safety first for all our customers!
• You will not walk out to your vehicles when you finish your trek. There is another 900-meter journey back to where you parked your vehicle.

Must have gear requirement: • Water (1.5-2 litres) • Lunch • Personal medications (e.g. Asthma Inhaler, blister protection etc) • Sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses • Backpack per person • Hiking boots/shoes • Walking trousers • 1 light top and 2 warm top layers (wool, merino, thermals, fleece, soft shell, etc. are good layers) • Waterproof raincoat • Mobile phone and head torch

We are committed to providing you with the best possible experience. Travel with our exclusive Manawhenua shuttle providers, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.