The Department of Conservation encourage visitors to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to book in advance. There is no cost to book. For more information, head here.
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.
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, found in the beautiful Tongariro National Park, 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.
Each year between October and the 30th of 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!
** 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 **
FAQ
How do I get there?
The best way to get to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is by shuttle. Shuttle services run from all local towns, you can arrange your shuttle here or by ringing the local ISITE's:
Ohakune ISITE 0800 647 483
Taumarunui ISITE +64 7 895 7494.
Can I
bike this track?
No, you
cannot bike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It is an offence under the Tongariro
National Park bylaws (1981) to use a vehicle, including a bicycle, off of
formed roads.
Are dogs
allowed?
Dogs are not
allowed within the Tongariro National Park boundaries.
What
should I wear?
We have a
comprehensive list of what to wear and pack which you can find here.
How long
will it take?
The
Tongariro Alpine Crossing is 19.4km long. Please prepare to be away for 7 - 8
hours, we recommend letting people know where you're going and when you plan on
being back. Head to Plan My Walk for more
information.
What is
the best time of the year to go?
The
Tongariro Alpine Crossing is beautiful all year round, however in winter we
strongly recommend going with a guide as there will be snow and ice on the
trail. For more information head here.
How much
elevation will there be?
There will be a change in elevation of about +/- 1196 m
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