Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Heavenly Views and Challenging Hike Experience
A purgatory for the body and a paradise for the eyes—this is Tongariro. Spanning 19.4 kilometers, taking around 8 hours, and clocking in at 38,000 steps, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the world’s premier day hikes. Successfully traversing this trail in New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park is an unforgettable adventure.
Tongariro National Park, established in 1887, holds the distinction of being New Zealand’s first national park and the fourth in the world. It was a generous gift to the nation from Maori tribal chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV. In 1993, it was recognized as a dual World Heritage site, celebrated for both its natural beauty and cultural significance.
Located about 370 kilometers from Auckland, with a driving time of 4.5 hours, the park is home to three active volcanoes: Ruapehu, Tongariro, and Ngauruhoe. The most recent eruption of Tongariro occurred in August 2012, adding to the region’s dynamic landscape. This volcanic terrain also served as the inspiration for the iconic landscapes in “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” film series.
[Yeah!] TIPS:
The starting point and endpoint of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing are different. If you’re driving, you’ll need to park your car at the end of the trail and take a shuttle bus to the start. The shuttle costs 35 NZD per person and takes about 20 minutes. The first bus departs at 6:30 AM.
If you’re staying at a nearby hotel, you can book the next morning’s shuttle at the front desk. The shuttle picks up at 6:00 AM, drops you off at the start, and returns to the end parking lot in the afternoon to bring you back to your hotel. The round-trip fare is 50 NZD. There is no entrance fee for the park.
1. Accommodation
Embarking on the one-day hike along the Tongariro Northern Circuit typically begins around 7:00 AM, necessitating an overnight stay near the park. While there are lodges and cabins within the park, conveniently close to the trailhead, they come with a premium price tag. If you opt for Taupo, it’s approximately 80-90 kilometers away, and catching the shuttle bus means an early 5:00 AM departure, which can be quite draining.
A more comfortable option is the Turangi JAGZ Motel, just a 30-minute drive from the park. This allows you to either take the shuttle or drive yourself at 6:00 AM, giving you an extra hour of much-needed sleep.
2. Weather
The optimal hiking season in Tongariro runs from November to April each year, but the mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable, often presenting hikers with extreme conditions such as strong winds, making the journey challenging. It’s crucial to check the current weather conditions before setting out.
The lodge provides the latest weather forecast for the next day on the mountain at 2:00 PM daily. Confirming the weather for the following day is essential before deciding to hike. It’s always better to wait for favorable conditions rather than risk a treacherous hike. The mountain winds are fierce, and the presence of volcanic ash can be daunting.
Rain can turn the trail into a muddy, slippery nightmare.
Tongariro National Park Weather Forecast Website: http://m.metservice.com/mountain/tongariro-national-park
3. Essential items
To ensure a safe and comfortable hike, pack waterproof hiking boots, trekking poles, a windproof and warm jacket, a hat, gloves, and sunglasses. Make sure your backpack is well-stocked with plenty of water and food, as there are no vendors along the way. All trash must be carried down with you; there are no trash bins available. Restrooms are only available every 3-4 kilometers, so use them when needed.
4. Post-Hike Relaxation
After completing your descent, whether you’re staying in Turangi, Taupo, or Rotorua, take advantage of the geothermal hot springs. Soaking in these natural pools is a perfect way to soothe your muscles and wash away the fatigue. It’s a highly recommended experience to cap off your adventure.
