Quick Details
Important details
- Gear check. Make sure you have good tramping boots and clothing that will keep you warm and dry.
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Before you consider booking. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this trek. We do not transfer infants, toddlers or children under the age of 7 years.
Passenger
Ages from 7+
NZ$ 65
Join the Ketetahi Car Park Shuttle to Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing!
Trip Duration
20 km or approximately 35 mins
Trip Details
National Park Shuttles is the sole Tangata Whenua (local people) operator based in Waimarino National Park Village, providing reliable transportation from the only all-day car park to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The secure parking facility is located on State Highway 46 at the road end of the Ketetahi track. Ride with us and park your car stress-FREE.
Trek across volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts – steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, alpine vegetation and vivid crater lakes, all with stunning views.
This challenging trip begins at 1120 m, climbs the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, through South Crater before climbing again to Red Crater, the highest point on the crossing at 1886 m.
You will then descend on a volcanic rock scree track to the vivid Emerald Lakes, known as Ngarotopounamu (greenstone-hued lakes). After passing Blue Lake, also known as Te Wai-whakaata-o-te-Rangihiroa (Rangihiroa’s mirror), the track sidles around the northern slope of Tongariro, then descends in a zigzag track down to the road end at 760 m.
- Collection is provided from our private car park which features security cameras and is staffed by security personnel
- No roadside parking on the main highway which is not secure and unsafe
- A tranquil drive to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in comfort
- We promote safety first for all our customers!
- Upon completion of the trek please note there is an additional 900-metre walk returning to the car park where your vehicle is located.
Must have gear requirement
• Water (1.5-2 litres)
• Lunch
• Personal medications (e.g. Asthma Inhaler, blister protection etc)
• Sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Backpack per person
• Hiking boots/shoes
• Walking trousers
• 1 light top and 2 warm top layers (wool, merino, thermals, fleece, soft shell, etc. are good layers)
• Waterproof raincoat
• Mobile phone and head torch
We want you to have a great experience with us. When you travel with our trusted Manawhenua shuttle partners, you can count on a smooth and reliable trip.
Your satisfaction is really important to us and we’re here to make sure you enjoy the journey.