Seamless Shuttles & Trail Transfers for Ohakune Adventures

Dempsey Buses — Shuttle Services for Tongariro, Ohakune and Turoa

Dempsey Buses operates a suite of shuttle and pickup services focused on the Tongariro region and Ohakune area. These services support some of New Zealand's most popular day trips, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the Ohakune Old Coach Road mountain bike route, Te Hangaruru trail access, and transfers to the Turoa skifield.

Key Transfers and Shuttle Options

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing pickups — Return shuttle pickups are available from Ohakune/Raetihi and National Park locations. Services for the Crossing operate only when weather and track conditions are assessed as safe.
• Ohakune Old Coach Road shuttle — Daily shuttle service to the Horopito start/finish point for riders and hikers. This link provides a direct connection between trail endpoints.
• Turoa skifield transfers — Dedicated transfers to the skifield using specially adapted alpine vehicles and drivers skilled in winter operations.
• Bike-friendly pickups — Fishers Track Pickup and other bike transport options simplify logistics for groups carrying bikes, with short transfer times noted for some pickups (~30 minutes).
• Te Hangaruru trail shuttles — Direct shuttle service to the Te Hangaruru trailhead with a scenic stop at the historic Old Coach Road.

Why choose a shuttle service to Tongariro and Ohakune?

• Convenience: Avoid arranging complex parking and bike transport. Shuttle services pick up and drop off at designated locations.
• Safety-first operations: Services for alpine tracks run only in favourable weather and safe track conditions to protect passengers.
• Specialised vehicles: Transfers to the skifield use vehicles adapted for alpine routes, driven by operators experienced in winter driving.
• Group-friendly options: Designed to transport multiple passengers and equipment, making them suitable for groups heading out for hiking, riding or skiing.

Practical notes for travellers

• Book shuttle pickups in advance to secure preferred pickup locations and times.
• Check current weather and track condition notices for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing — services operate only when conditions are safe.
• Confirm bike transport options when reserving a shuttle if bringing bicycles for the Old Coach Road or other trails.

Service areas and pickup points

Dempsey Buses provides pickups and returns from key local points including Ohakune, Raetihi, National Park, Horopito and skifield access at Turoa. Shuttle options connect trailheads, historic stops and parking areas to simplify one-way and return trips.

Booking and preparation tips

• Reserve transfers ahead of travel dates, especially in peak hiking and ski seasons.
• Bring appropriate gear for alpine conditions when heading to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or skifield.
• Use the shuttle to remove the need for long returns to parked vehicles, streamlining day-trip logistics.

For travellers planning a Tongariro crossing, mountain bike tour on the Old Coach Road, or a day on Turoa, Dempsey Buses provides focused shuttle solutions that prioritise safe, direct transport and specialised vehicle support.