Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing (or Tongariro Crossing) is rated as ‘the best one day trek in New Zealand’ and listed by many as one of the 'top 10 day treks in the world'. Lonely Planet even said that a walk amidst the volcanoes of Tongariro is a life-changing experience not to be missed.

The diverse and dramatic scenery and unique land forms are spectacular and you will experience some of the most scenic and volcanically active area’s of Tongariro National Park.

The track provides a challenging hike taking 7-9 hours (depending on your fitness level) and covers a distance of 18 km one way. The track runs the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Tongariro and Ngauruhoe Mountains. It climbs to Red Crater (1886m), then drops down to the vivid Emerald Lakes. After passing the Green and Blue lakes the track sides around the northern slope of Tongariro, then descends in a zigzag to the Ketetahi Hut. For more about the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track and highlights.

Tongariro Crossing

Track map courtesy of Department of Conservation

Summits

If you have a slightly higher fitness level, you might like to add summit tracks to the regular Tongariro Crossing route.

Tongariro Summit (1967m)
A relatively easy track, taking around 1 ½ hours return from the main Tongariro Crossing track.

Ngauruhoe Summit (2287m)
The 2500 year old near perfect cone of Mount Ngauruhoe attracts 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 provides a difficult climb (or scramble) up a sharp screed slope taking around an hour and a half up and 15 minutes down. On a clear day you will find some of the best views to be had! Allow 2 hours return from the main Tongariro Crossing track.

Winter experience

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be done on a beautiful winter’s day, but for your safety you should be accompanied by an experienced guide, that can safely assess the weather and the best route to be taken to avoid risks of avalanche and ice danger and provide appropriate equipment. Weather on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is subject to Alpine conditions and can be extreme, particularly on the “Red Crater” ridge, including snow, ice, and often strong winds.

Planning and Essentials

Weather conditions in the Tongariro National Park is extremely unpredictable. The weather can change from glorious sunshine to miserable cold in a few minutes so be equipped and prepared for extreme weather change. It is a good idea to check the metservice weather report before you set out.

Click here for your must have essentials before going off for your hike.

Get some hiking tips for the Tongariro Crossing.

Read TV & Radio presenter Marcus Lush's experience on the Tongariro Crossing.

Check out the Tongariro Alpine Crossing courtesy of BareKiwi

Global Encounter Takes on Tongariro

Why you should do the Tongariro Crossing

Wanting to do the Tongariro Crossing but have some doubts about your fitness, track difficulty or time it takes? Known as the best day walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing is well worth the journey. Here's 7 reasons why you should make the attempt.