Seasons on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Crossing in Summer

If you are after those amazing shots of the lakes, craters and out of the world colours then summer is the time for you to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.  The most popular time to go is from December to April.  This means it is very busy but the weather is nice and stable. 

 Crossing in Autumn

May and June are usually too soon for snow.  The days are getting shorter and the weather is getting colder but the blessing is that it is not very busy on the mountain.  When you get a blue sky day at this time of year it is magic!  Such a special time to be in this famous location.

Crossing in Spring

Spring (October/November) is a pretty time of year to go as the snow is melting which makes for views like the one below. We are careful about the weather as the snow melts away.  Freedom hiking becomes possible once the tracks are clear of snow and ice as you can see in this picture.