The Volcanic Plateau and Tongariro Volcanic Level

Current volcanic level for the Tongariro is Level 0

About the Volcanoes in Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is in the Central North Island’s Volcanic Plateau, part of the geologically active Taupō Volcanic Zone. This landscape is home to three major volcanoes, each with its own unique features and history:

  • Mount Tongariro - A multi-cratered volcanic complex and the namesake of the crossing. Its most recent eruption was in 2012 from the Te Maari Crater, which impacted parts of the trail.
  • Mount Ngauruhoe - A fascinating cone-shaped volcano, often recognised as Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings, which last erupted in 1977.
  • Mount Ruapehu - The highest mountain in the North Island and an active stratovolcano, Ruapehu features a crater lake that is monitored for lahar risk and last erupted in 2007.

These volcanoes are watched closely, and any change in their activity is taken seriously. While eruptions are rare, it’s important to stay informed and follow safety advice when hiking in this active volcanic area.

If you are after those amazing shots of the lakes, craters and out-of-this-world colours then the best time for you to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is in summer! 

If you hike the Tongariro Crossing in Summer, from December to April, you can expect stable weather and warm temperatures. February, March & April are expected to have the most predictable weather, but also the highest number of hikers, so the track can get busy. 

If you’d like a quieter summer hike, consider doing the Tongariro Crossing midweek, or in late November or December. 

Summer on the crossing

What to do in the case of an eruption on Tongariro

  • Move immediately away from the eruption site, staying out of valleys.
  • If you’re in a valley, move sideways to higher ground (a ridge top)
  • If you see flying rocks, or a steam and ash cloud coming towards you, take shelter behind a bank or ridge and cover your head with your pack.


More information is available on the DOC Website


Please also check GEONET for the most up to date information (At Level 1 Tongariro is closed to hikers)

Steam rising from a crater on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing