Dempsey Buses offers a direct shuttle from Ohakune to the Te Hangaruru trailhead, with a scenic stop on historic Old Coach Road, making your access to this volcanic backcountry seamless and memorable.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
Full-day or multi-day hike depending on pace
Fitness Level
Requires good endurance and moderate fitness due to trail length and elevation changes
Wildlife
History
Old Coach Road was a vital 19th-century route linking remote communities in the central North Island.
Conservation
The trail passes through protected forest areas managed to preserve native flora and fauna with minimal human impact.
Dempsey Buses
Dempsey Buses offers a direct shuttle from Ohakune to the Te Hangaruru trailhead, with a scenic stop on historic Old Coach Road, making your access to this volcanic backcountry seamless and memorable.
Dempsey Buses provides shuttle and pickup services for outdoor adventures in the Ohakune and Tongariro areas. The operator runs a set of tailored transfers that support hikers, mountain bikers and skiers with practical transport between trailheads, parking points and skifields. Services include pickups for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing from locations such as Ohakune, Raetihi and National Park, daily shuttle operations to the Ohakune Old Coach Road start/finish at Horopito, and transfers to the Turoa skifield using vehicles adapted for alpine conditions.
Dempsey Buses offers group-friendly options that remove the hassle of bike transport by providing bike-friendly pickups and shuttle space for gear. Several trips feature concise travel times—some pickups described as approximately 30 minutes—so clients can focus on the hike, ride or ski rather than logistics. The operator emphasises safety: services run only in favourable weather and track conditions for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and related trails. Drivers are described as skilled in winter operations for secure skifield transfers.
For trail access, Dempsey Buses includes shuttle stops at historic and scenic points such as the Old Coach Road when transporting riders to the Te Hangaruru trailhead or Horopito. The combination of designated pickups, adapted alpine vehicles and clear safety conditions makes Dempsey Buses a practical transport option for visitors planning day trips on local trails and slopes.
Tours Offered
6 Trips
Shuttle and pickup services listed
Daily Shuttle
Old Coach Road
Daily service to Horopito
Alpine Transfers
Adapted vehicles
Secure skifield transport
Safety Focus
Weather-dependent
Operates only in safe conditions
Reserve a pickup for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Old Coach Road, Turoa skifield or Te Hangaruru trailhead — secure your spot before weather-dependent runs fill up.
Reserve Shuttle Early
Book your Te Hangaruru shuttle in advance, especially during peak hiking seasons to secure your spot.
Arrive Prepared at Ohakune
Plan to arrive early in Ohakune’s Isite carpark to check in and load bikes before departure.
Check Weather Before Departure
The area’s weather can shift rapidly; bring layers and check conditions to ensure safe travel and trail head access.
Carry Adequate Water and Snacks
Though the shuttle covers transport, the trail itself has limited water sources, so bring enough supplies for your hike or ride.
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Durable, waterproof boots provide traction and support on rocky and uneven trail surfaces.
Layered Clothing
Quick-dry and insulating layers adjust for fluctuating temperatures from trailhead to summit.
all
Hydration System
Carry enough water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months when sources are scarce.
summer
Bike Rack or Carrier
Useful if combining shuttle service with mountain biking on parts of the trail.
summer