Different situations may cause us to change our pick up times. You must call the day before you are scheduled to go to check the weather and the pick up times.
You must wait outside your pick up location at least 10 minutes before pick up time so that you do not miss the bus. If you are not picked up on time call us straight away to ensure that we can assist. Waiting 5 minutes after pick up time is too late.
Timetable subject to change
| Pick up | Travel Time | Cost | Early Bird | Standard Service | Late Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taupo | 1.5 Hours | $65 | 5.20am | 6.20am | - |
| Turangi | 45 mins | $50 | 6.10am | 7.10am | - |
| Ketetahi | 30mins | $35 | 6.30am | 7.30am | 8.30am |
| Base Camp | 20mins | $35 | 6.40am | 7.40am | - |
Timetable subject to change
The drivers arrive at Ketetahi at 1.30pm and start checking people in. Please approach the drivers once you complete the track to check in. Once you are checked in you are then put on the next bus leaving. The last bus leaves at 4:30pm. You must be off the track by 4.30pm.
| Drop off Points | Multiple Departures Between | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ketetahi - Taupo | 1.30-4.30pm | 1 Hour |
| Ketetahi - Turangi | 1.30-4.30pm | 20 Mins |
| Ketetahi - Base Camp | 1.30-4.30pm | 10 Mins |
Summer vs Winter The most popular way to enjoy the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Summer is to self-guide and use our transport only options. Guides can be arranged on request. During the Winter months, when there is snow and ice on the track we offer track safety options. If you have booked a transport only option and the track conditions change, you will be offered a full refund or the option to upgrade. The same with the end of the Winter season. If the track conditions clear we will offer you a partial refund to go on our transport only options or a full refund if you choose to not go ahead.
Taupo is set beside the northern end of Lake Taupo with stunning views of the lake and mountains. It is the largest town we pick up from and there is plenty to do in and around the town. We pick up from your accommodation if it is central or from the Taupo i-SITE if you are out of our pick up route.
Turangi is set beside the Tongariro River. Famous for fly fishing. It is a smaller town closer to the mountain. We pick up from your accommodation if it is central or from the Turangi i-SITE if you are out of our pick up route.
Base Camp is a safe car park situated in front of the Tongariro Holiday Park. Its a great option for those staying at the holiday park or driving your car but need to hire hiking equipment (only available on early shuttle). There are no toilets available at this car park.
Ketetahi is a one way shuttle from the end of the track to the start in the morning. This way you are hiking your way back to your car. The car park has parking assistants during the busy summer months only. This is a great option for travelers that are either very fast, very slow or very adventurous hikers that want to spend extra time exploring. You can stay anywhere you like and drive to this location in the morning. If you are doing the Northern Circuit or require specialised one way transfers please call and we will do our best to accommodate.