Tongariro Crossing Park & Ride (Ketetahi)
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We are an experienced shuttle service providing transport for visitors to and from the Tongariro National Park since the 90's.
Tongariro Expeditions operates out of the Tongariro Crossing Park & Ride, a safe off road parking area near the track end at Ketetahi. We offer a complimentary afternoon shuttle back to your car between 1-5pm.
With more than 25 years’ experience living and breathing the Tongariro lifestyle, the team at Tongariro Expeditions understand this unique alpine environment better than most. Alongside our Tongariro Alpine Crossing shuttle services, we also offer information, maps and comprehensive weather advice.
Available options
Turangi Return Shuttle
Turangi Return 6:10am or7:10am: Pick up from your central Turangi accommodation or Turangi isite. Pick up time either 6:10am or 7:10am, to be confirmed when you call the day before. Leave the end of the track between 2:30-4:30pm.
Taupo Return Shuttle
Pick up from your central Taupo accommodation or Taupo isite. Pick up time is 5:15am.
Tongariro Holiday Park Shuttle
Tongariro Holiday Park: This service picks up from the car park in front of the Tongariro Holiday Park called Base Camp at 6:40am.
Ketetahi Park N Ride
This service takes you from the end of the track to the start. Check in time in 30 mins prior to departure time.
What's included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Driver
Complementary afternoon shuttle back to your car.
Map and information sheet
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
60 reviews
5★
40
4★
10
3★
4
2★
1
1★
5
Tripadvisor
4.1
33 reviews
5★
21
4★
4
3★
1
2★
3
1★
4
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Not recommended for participants with back problems, heart complaints or other serious medical conditions, or pregnant women
Weather conditions can change, please dress appropriately
Meeting point
Follow yellow signs to park in the Tongariro Crossing Park & Ride off SH46, 500m west of the entrance to Ketetahi track end. Do not park on the side of the road or in the 'Tongariro Shuttle car park'. Arrive 30 min early. Check in 15 mins before departure time. Staff will park you.
Important notes
• You have booked with Tongariro Expeditions
• Contact for Tongariro Expeditions is by email only. These are answered quickly from 10am till 5pm. You are not able to contact us in the morning as we are busy driving or checking in passengers. Please make sure you know where you are going before you head to our location.
• Prepare yourself for the mountain conditions. Dress in layers with good footwear. Bring food and water with you. There are no shops on the way or on the mountain.
• We give you a map and information sheet in the morning. Arrive early to allow time to park and check in before we leave. We do not wait for passengers that are running late.
About Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage Site known for its volcanic landscapes, Maori cultural significance, and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It offers diverse hiking trails, skiing, and stunning natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
This 19.4 km (12.1 miles) day hike is considered one of the best one-day hikes in the world, offering stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse terrain.
Adventure/Nature
6-8 hours
Free, but guided tours are available for a fee
Mount Ruapehu
The highest mountain in the North Island, offering skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Adventure/Nature
Full day for hiking, half day for skiing
Free for hiking, ski passes required for skiing
Whakapapa Village
A gateway to the park with visitor facilities, museums, and cultural exhibits.
Cultural/Nature
A few hours
Free to explore, small fees for exhibits
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hangi
Traditional Maori meal cooked in an earth oven with meat, vegetables, and sometimes puddings.
Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan if requested
Lamb
New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, often grilled or roasted.
Dinner
Meat dish
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Mountain biking
Scenic drives
Cultural exhibits
Maori cultural experiences
Visiting historical sites
Fishing in nearby lakes and rivers
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer offers the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is most popular during this time.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tongariro National Park is generally safe, but weather conditions can change rapidly.
Important Precautions:
- • Carry appropriate gear for hikes.
- • Check weather conditions before heading out.
- • Stay on marked trails.
Getting there
By air
- Auckland Airport • 320 km (200 miles) from Tongariro National Park
By train
National Park Village
By bus
National Park Village
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available but not frequent. Schedule in advance.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
National Park Village
Whakapapa Village
Day trips
Mount Ngauruhoe
20 km (12 miles) from National Park Village • Full day
A challenging hike to the summit of an active volcano, offering stunning views.
Ohakune
30 km (19 miles) from National Park Village • Half day
A charming town known for its carrot-themed attractions and access to the park.
Festivals
Tongariro Alpine Crossing Festival • February
Pro tips
- Start the Tongariro Alpine Crossing early to avoid afternoon weather changes.
- Carry layers of clothing as weather can change rapidly.
- Book accommodations and shuttle services in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Check weather conditions before heading out on hikes.
- Respect Maori cultural sites and traditions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
