THE TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING WINTER ON THE TONGARIRO SUMMER ON THE TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT MAP

WHY HIKE WITH US? TIMETABLES & RATES EQUIPMENT CHECK LIST CANCELLATION POLICY F.A.Q's

The Tongariro National Park was initially gifted to the government as a reserve by the Maori Chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV (Horonuku) on behalf of the Tuwharetoa tribe on the 23 September 1887. Originally 2,630 ha, the park now covers 79,598 ha.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one way track, requiring transport to the start and from the end. Arrangements can be made with Tongariro Expeditions.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging hike taking 6-8 hours covering a distance of 20 km one way.

The recommended hiking direction is from Mangatepopo to Ketetahi. 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, volcanically active areas of the park.

The track runs up the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Tongariro and Ngauruhoe Mountains. It climbs to the Red Crater (1886m), then drops down to the vivid Emerald Lakes. After passing the Blue lake, the track goes around the northern slope of Tongariro, descending in a zig zag to the Ketetahi Hut. After passing the Ketetahi Hut, the track steadily descends through tussock plains and into a native bush canopy following a stream to your final destination, the Ketetahi carpark.

What happens and what we do:

	We can pick up from most accommodation.  It is advised to be waiting outside five minutes before the departure time so you do not miss the bus.  Payment can be made via prepaid ticket, cash or VISA/Mastercard on the bus.  Hire equipment is organised in the morning on the bus.
	We only operate when the weather conditions are forecast to be safe to do the track. Our company policy is that we will not operate unless we are prepared to be on the track ourselves. Please note that forecasts are frequently incorrect and conditions may be different to what has been advised
	During transit to the mountain a map and an explanation sheet about the track and other general information will be given to you. Feel free to ask any of our staff about the track as they are all well equipped with knowledge about the track and current conditions
Note: side tracks are accessible at this time of year, but only when the weather conditions allow. Ask our staff on arrival at the track for details

If you are thinking of adding either of these side tracks to your hike, you need to be booked on the "EARLY BIRD SERVICE".

A relatively easy track, taking around an hour and a half return from the main Tongariro Alpine Crossing Track.

The 2500 year old near perfect cone of Mount Ngauruhoe entices many visitors to its summit. Relatively quiet since 1975, this parasitic cone of Mt. Tongariro is traditionally one of New Zealand's most active volcanoes.

This track is not for the faint hearted. It is an extremely dangerous scramble up a sharp scree slope. Severe injury is a regular occurrence on this side track due to rock falls. It takes around an hour and a half up and 30 minutes down. Please only attempt this challenge on a clear day for safety reasons and for some of the best views to be had. Allow an extra 2 hours for this side track from the main Tongariro Crossing.

Our drivers will give you summit details on your arrival at the start of the track.

During winter conditions when snow and ice cover the track, we offer a package that includes transport and all equipment i.e. boots, clothing packs, crampons and poles.*
For your safety guides will accompany you through the snow and ice sections. On the trip they will assess which routes to be taken to avoid the risks of avalanche and ice danger. This means that during heavy snow or ice, trips may go to the summit of the track at the Red Crater and return. Our staff will instruct you in the use of the hiking equipment. They are there to help should you need it and to take control over any difficulties that may occur.

* Hikers may choose to use their own equipment but full package rate still applies.

What happens and what we do:

Winter rate ex Taupo, Turangi, Whakapapa and National Park is $155, fees are inclusive of transport, all clothing and winter equipment etc. Note: side tracks to summits of Tongariro and Ngauruhoe are not accessible at this time of year. This trip comes highly recommended and our company has been voted in the top 5 activities to do in New Zealand.

3-4 days, Grade: Challenging

Winding its way over Mt. Tongariro and Mt. Ngauruhoe is the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the greatest hikes of New Zealand. This hike passes through unique and stunning landforms which include volcanic craters and glacial valleys.

A range of trips can be planned around Tongariro Northern Circuit. Day trips and overnight trips to one of the four huts, or a complete circuit.

The safest and most popular time of the year to hike the Tongariro Northern Circuit is during the summer months, December to March when the tracks are normally clear of snow and the weather is less severe.

Ketetahi - 1450 m
Oturere - 1360 m
Mangetepopo - 1190 m
Waihohonu - 1120 m