Often described as New Zealand's greatest day walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging journey across a remarkable volcanic landscape. The 19.4km hike starts from the Mangetopopo Carpark off State Highway 47 south of Lake Taupo and is a 35 minute drive from Whakapapa or National Park Villages, approximately an hour from Ohakune, Turangi or Taumarunui and a 90 minute drive from Lake Taupo township.
Between Labour Weekend (21 October 2017) and 30 April 2018 there will be 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. Book a shuttle through your local i-site network. Get more information on the changes.
