The Department of Conservation encourage visitors to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to book in advance for visits after 14 October. There is no cost to book.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the best one-day hike in New Zealand and is regarded as one of the top ten single-day treks in the world. Locally admired and respected, here in our region.
A genuine wonder of the natural world, and the crown jewel of Ruapehu, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging journey across a remarkable volcanic landscape but is most definitely worth the effort.
** Please remember this is a hike in an alpine environment in which we recommend you use a guide. The weather is changeable, ice and snow are present throughout the year **
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a popular destination for hikers throughout the year due to its incredible mountain beauty and turquoise lakes. The 19.4km hike starts from the Mangatepopo Carpark (off State Highway 47, south of Lake Taupō) and is just 20 minutes from National Park Village, a 35-minute drive from Whakapapa or Raetihi, approximately an hour’s drive from Ohakune, Turangi, or Taumarunui and a 90-minute drive from Lake Taupō township.
Between October and 30 April, there is a four-hour time restriction for private vehicles at the Mangatepopo Road-end. This gives visitors time to enjoy short walks but people wanting to do the entire hike, which takes an average of 7-8 hours, will need to use shuttle transport.
Please look after the beauty of Our Greater Outdoors. Stay on the trail, don't contribute to the erosion of natural habitats and leave no trace. What you take in, you take out. Happy hiking!
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