Any trip preparation with a missed Tongariro crossing would be outlaw; this is a must-do venture to catch a glimpse of some of the finest and most unique landscapes found in the whole country. You walk through an arena of volcanic wonders with the most dramatic craters, steaming vents, andpschye-looking volcanic peaks that look as if they sprung right out of a movie set, and hold your horses-they literally filmed the entire scene here, ring any bells? Welcome aboard: Lord of the Rings, rejoice! Briefly stated, the Tongariro Crossing is among the most famous day walks offered in New Zealand, and it is easy to see why.
Below, you will find everything you need to know before setting out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Location of Tongariro Solely.
The location of Tongariro National Park comprises the volcanic mountains in the northern part of the North Island and is just a twenty-minute ride away from the town of Turangi. The drive down from Auckland or Wellington is in the ballpark of four hours. Any which way, accessing the park with whatever means of transportation is okay so whether it be from some other nearby town or from Turangi, reaching there will certainly not be a problem.
History and Cultural Importance
Beautifully, Tongariro is more than just a hiking destination; it is a cultural symbol for the Māori people. The mountains are sacred, and in 1894 the park became New Zealand’s first national park. UNESCO World Heritage Site status was conferred during the 1990s for its huge natural and cultural beauty.
To add to this fame, another peak in the park, Mount Ngauruhoe, was also used as the location for the terrifying Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings. Each year, more than 150,000 hikers traverse the Tongariro Crossing, appreciating a mix of adventure, nature, and deep local culture.
What to Expect on the Tongariro Crossing
The Tongariro Crossing is a point-to-point hike—the starting point at one end and the finishing point at another. This trail is, in every sense, a rewarding challenge and takes around six to eight hours. Get ready to walk through an active volcanic zone, with steaming craters and jagged rocks, feeling almost extraterrestrial underfoot.
One might feel that the crossing is extremely tiring due to the climb to higher altitudes and volcanic nature. However, the views along the way and each hour of adventure spent out there make it all worth it. If you are lucky enough to get wonderful weather, the blue sky will reward you with wonderful views throughout the day!
Quick Stats:
Distance: 19.5 km (12 miles)
Elevation Gain: 765 m (2,500 feet)
Elevation Loss: 1,125 m (3,700 feet)
Maximum Elevation: 1,900 m (6,250 feet)
Difficulty: Difficult
Time: 6-8 hours
This translates into a six-stage trek that invites challenges and rewards in different measures at each stage.
- Mangatepopo to Soda Springs (Easy walk – 1 hour)
The easiest by far. Mostly flat and well-maintained, this trail witnesses sights of volcanic formations and a sulfur stream in the valley below. One could also enjoy the first sweeping views of Mount Ngauruhoe, the ‘Mount Doom’ volcano! Finally, the end of this section takes you down to Soda Springs, a small waterfall that provides a great background for a rest stop. - Soda Springs to South Crater (Moderate/difficult ascent – 40-60 minutes)
Amidst all that beauty begins! Up the side of the “Devil’s Staircase” to the South Crater. This is one of the steepest climbs on the whole trail, so take your time and enjoy the ride. - SOUTH CRATER TO RED CRATER MODERATE ASCENT 1 Hour
The first 15 minutes start level, then steepens to the Red Crater Ridge. Stunning vistas abound; just be careful of the wind and the slippery gravel on the edge. - RED CRATER TO BLUE LAKE EASY DESCENT/FLAT WALK/MODERATE ASCENT 30-60 Minutes
This is the most scenic part of the hike. With Mount Doom behind and the Red Crater on your right, you will pass the gorgeous Emerald Lakes. Enjoy the scree slip down; it’s fun, but be careful! - BLUE LAKE TO KETETAHI SHELTER EASY DESCENT FOR 1 HOUR
At this point, the trail flattens a bit, offering further breathtaking views in the distance of Lake Rotoaira. Relatively easy as it descends toward the Ketetahi Shelter. - KETETAHI SHELTER TO KETETAHI CAR PARK EASY DESCENT FOR 2 HOURS
The last phase can drag on a little because it is all downhill through forest. Be that as it may, the end is almost in sight, and with a well-maintained path, it is an easy dash to the finish.
Recommended Packing List
Water: 2 liters or more per person-no drinking water is accessible on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy food such as granola bars or candy (yes, even Sour Patch Kids make phenomenal hiking pals).
Footwear: A good pair of sturdy hiking shoes! The grounds can get a bit slippery and uneven.
Jacket: Temperatures can drop suddenly, even if your trek begins warm.
Headlight: If you are a slower hiker or if you start the trek quite late, you should have a headlamp as a precautionary backup in case you return after dark.
Camera: You will thank us later for preserving those iconic views. Just remember, no drones are allowed.
Getting There
True point-to-point, meaning you arrange transportation: you leave your car at the Ketetahi car park and take a shuttle to the start of the trail at Mangatepopo. By the time you finish the crossing, your vehicle has been waiting for you at the end.
Shuttle buses will be continuously leaving every 30 to 60 minutes from 5.30 AM to 9.30 AM, taking about 30 minutes to 45 minutes to reach your destination. Book your shuttle in advance for entry fees set at NZD 40 ($28 USD) per person through GetYourGuide or local shuttle services.
Best time to go Hike on the Tongariro Crossing in the good months generally considered to be from November through April when the weather would mostly be better and the trail finishes clearing. Often, during winter months (May to October) would mean being covered in snow and would render the trail unsafe and unfit to hike unless one is very experienced with proper gear.
Where to Stay
For plenty of enjoyment on the hike, do make arrangements for staying somewhere nearby to the park for the night before the hike. Turangi has some pleasant holiday parks, or you may camp for free at Kaimanawa Forest Park, which includes several camping areas, namely Kaimanawa Road, Urchin, and Waikoko Valley campgrounds.
After the hike, you could consider staying in a warm holiday park in Turangi for some cleansing and relaxation, along with a hot shower and other facilities.
Final Thoughts
The Last Words
The Tongariro Crossing must be counted amongst the most exhilarating hikes in the world, with mind-blending sights, extremely hard terrains, and a great sense of achievement. Therefore, if an avid fan of the Lord of the Rings or just out to see what epic adventure is all about, you must do this.
Plan ahead, prepare accordingly, and enjoy one of the greatest treks you will never forget!