Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle by Backyard Tours
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Requires good cardiovascular fitness and stamina due to length, elevation gain, and rough terrain.
Overview
Navigate New Zealand’s Tongariro Alpine Crossing with Backyard Tours’ shuttle and secure parking. Experience volcanic peaks, crater lakes, and native bush on this unmatched 20.2 km trek.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing | Car Park & Shuttle | One way trip
ALL DAY Car Park | Shuttle | Local Cultural insights | Safety Photo |
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on the unforgettable Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 20.2 km hike through stunning volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and native bush. With a secure shuttle service to the trailhead, enjoy a seamless adventure in New Zealand's UNESCO World Heritage site. Prepare for a challenging yet rewarding experience in nature's grandeur.
Rates
$60.00 per person - minimum
Includes Car Park All Day | Transport Shuttle to start | Local Cultural insights | Safety Photo |
About
We offer fantastic transport shuttle one way trip journey's to the heart of the Tongariro National Park for self-hikers to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and safely walk back to their parked vehicles in our exclusive, collective, whanau all day car park lot. You may onboard any shuttle leaving from here to take you to the trail start. This is safely away from the main highway avoiding road traffic congestion.
Departing from the 'ONLY' ALL DAY Car Park lot off SH46 and to Transport Shuttle to Mangatepopo Road off SH47, National Park Aotearoa New Zealand at variable times respectively. Times depart 6.00 am, 7.00 am, 8.00 am, or 9.00 am, respectively - expect times’ may vary due to demand and weather permitting.
*Cost includes Department of Conservation Visitor Community Contribution fee. You may book your trek only, free of charge, through their website.
You’re niche transport shuttle service will welcome you to the heart of the Tongariro National Park an UNESCO first dual heritage National Park in the World amongst our sacred volcanic mountains Pihanga, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu famously world renowned.
Let’s make your transport shuttle experience a memorable one!
Reserve Transport | Secure Shuttle | Book NOW.
We’d love to read your review, and to give you thanks and appreciation to travelling with us your favoured transport shuttle operator.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: All Day Car Park lot & Shuttle +6422 314 2656 Check-in 15 minutes before with Car Park Staff to onboard with BACKYARD TOURS.
Copy URL to open: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bUWE7xPjee9dFqbEA State Highway 46 follow the sign posted TONGARIRO CROSSING SHUTTLE CAR PARK - Road is opposite Ketetahi trail end.
Please DO NOT GOOGLE MAPS while driving as can divert you away from the maunga mountain.
Duration
**Distance | Tongariro Crossing Shuttle Car Park 19.9 km SH46 | Average time: 16 minutes’ drive. **Distance | Ketetahi Road trail end 900 m |Tongariro Parking lot – ALL DAY | Average time: 10 minutes’ walk. TONGAIRRO ALPINE CROSSING – Mangatepopo Road, SH47 National Park, New Zealand
All times are estimated | Allowance for traffic & road conditions | People courteous | Please be kind.
Adventure Tips
Start Early
Begin your hike at first light to avoid afternoon weather shifts and allow enough time to finish before dark.
Layer Up for Changeable Weather
Prepare for rapid weather changes—carry waterproof, windproof layers along with warm clothing.
Respect the Track
Stay on marked trails and avoid touching crater lake waters to protect this fragile environment.
Hydrate and Snack Often
Bring ample water and high-energy snacks to maintain stamina on this physically demanding trail.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand Fantail (Pīwakawaka)
- North Island Brown Kiwi (rarely seen)
History
Tongariro National Park was established in 1887, making it New Zealand's oldest national park and the world’s first national park gifted by indigenous people to a nation.
Conservation
Visitors are urged to follow strict leave-no-trace principles and respect restrictions like not touching crater lake waters to preserve water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in Tūrangi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Supports your ankles and grips volcanic scoria and rocky trail sections.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against sudden rain and wind common in alpine environments.
all specific
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses shield you from intense alpine sun exposure.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Allows for temperature regulation as weather shifts quickly on the trail.
all specific