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 INFORMATION
Summit – (Dana) 021 784 202 https://www.summitshuttles.co.nz
Summit Shuttles offers convenient pick-ups from Whakapapa Holiday Park. When booking online, please specify in the comments: 'PICK UP FROM WHAKAPAPA HOLIDAY PARK.' Even if your confirmation mentions meeting at National Park, rest assured they will collect you from Whakapapa Holiday Park (front lawn). If you book there 5.45am shuttle you will need to drive to there yard. This time is not pick up at the park.
THE FOLLOWING SHUTTLES PICK YOU UP AND DROP YOU OFF FROM/TO NATIONAL PARK ONLY. 10 mins drive away
National Park Shuttles (Thomas) 027 394 1498
https://www.nationalparkshuttles.com
Tongariro Shuttles - 027 3941 498 or 07 892 2870
Ruapehu Scenic Shuttles (Colin) 020 4111 4648 https://scenicshuttles.securedirectbookings.com
Dempseys – 0800 754 123
ACTIVE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND BACKYARD TOURS ARE ONE WAY FROM KETETAHI TO THE START OF THE TONGARIRO CROSSING. You drive to the end of the crossing (30mins away from our campground) One of these companies 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 to your own car.
Active Outdoor Adventures (Trina 027 228 4831) https://www.activeoutdooradventures.co.nz
Backyard Tours (Gloria) 022 314 2656 www.backyardtours.com
