The Tongariro Crossing is described as one of the best one-day hikes in New Zealand. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing trek takes you from alpine meadows to mountain summit with stunning volcanic features along the way. On the Tongariro Apline Crossing you will walk across a lunar landscape of craters, scattered pumice, active volcanoes, mountain springs, lava flows, emerald lakes, piles of scoria and statue-like mounds of volcanic desert. It will take about 8-9 hours to allow time for photos and any sidetracks, the summit of Mt Tongariro is 1967 m and Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom, for all the Lord of the Rings fans) at 2287m above sea level.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing transport leaves daily weather permitting from National Park Village. Your accommodation host will arrange for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle to pick you up and deliver you back at the end of the day.

In winter independent hiking is possible if you are experienced hiking in alpine terrain.  A guide is recommended if you are not experienced hiking using crampons and an ice axe. Guiding on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is available summer and winter.

Be prepared with

• Plenty of water/fluids, especially on hot days
• Food (there is nowhere to purchase any thing on the track)
• Waterproof jacket/pants
• Good walking boots (it is uneven volcanic terrain)
• Warm clothing polypropylene
• Woollen hat and gloves
• Sunscreen or sun hat