About the
Tongariro Crossing & Shuttle Information
Often described as the best one-day hike in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing provides an opportunity to experience some of the most scenic and active volcanic areas of the National Park. The total length of the walk is 19.5 km. You can expect to be no less than amazed with the sights and sounds you will encounter.
The track winds up Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. Poles guide you across the South Crater to the highest point at Red Crater which is at 1886 metres. Red Crater is still an active steaming vent.
Beyond Red Crater the track passes Emerald Lakes and Blue Lake (Te Wai-Whakaata-o-te-Rangihiroa). From here the route descends past the steaming Te Maari crater to Ketetahi Hut and the nearby hot springs, then down through native forest to Ketetahi car park.
For anyone reasonably fit and who enjoys the outdoors; this is an experience not to be missed!
SHUTTLE OPTIONS EXPLAINED:
One Way Shuttle:
1. Drive yourself to the Car Park located opposite the end point at Ketetahi.
2. Take a shuttle to the start, Mangatepopo.
3. Self hike over the Aline Crossing ending near your car at Ketetahi.
4. Grab an Ice-cream or cold drink on the way to your car!
Return Shuttle:
1. Board a shuttle from your accommodation, to Mangatepopo (start point).
2. Self hike over the Alpine Crossing ending at Ketetahi.
3. Board your shuttle at Ketetahi. Enjoy the drive back to your accommodation.
4. Buy a cold drink in the
SHUTTLE INFORMATION
Active Outdoor Adventures - Trina & Weti)
https://www.activeoutdooradventures.co.nz
For a "One Way Shuttle" from (end point) Ketetahi to the start of the Tongariro Crossing.
You drive to the end of the crossing (30mins away from our campground), park your vehicle all day in the only off-road Car Park, then Active Outdoor Adventures will pick you up and drive you to the start of the crossing. You will then be able to walk as fast as you like or as slow as you like back to your own car. (Parking is included with your shuttle booking).
National Park Shuttles - (Tracey & Thomas) 0273941498 https://www.nationalparkshuttles.com
"Return Shuttles"
National Park Shuttles offers convenient pick-ups from Whakapapa Holiday Park. National Park Shuttles will take you to the start of the Alpine Crossing in the morning then return you to the holiday Park in the afternoon. Convenient option for travelers who have no vehicle.
INFORMATION IN WHAKAPAPA VILLAGE
Ma & Mels Coffee Cart - This is located outside the Tussock Bar
DOC office - for parking permits for the great walks 07 8923 729
Skotel Restaurant – Dinner reservations 07 8923 719
