Welcome to the heart of Tongariro National Park amongst our taonga treasured Volcanic Maunga Mountains Pihanga, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu like nowhere else in the World. On Journey enjoy our learnings about Manaakitanga – caring & safety of visitors and Kaitiakitanga – guardianship to preserving life.
Locals of Maōri descent born and raised in Turangi Tongariro providing a niche transport service to Aotearoa New Zealand’s known best one day adventure hike to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with award winning experienced local transport services.
Highly recommended from Visitor’s. Ensured safety and experience from our destination Lake Rotoaira Turangi, World famously known for trout fishing, hiking, river rafting, geothermal hot pools, stays and a quint friendly environment. Shuttles & transfers are self-guided hiking and naturally has our Maōri blessings, and FREE safety photography via social media. UNESCO Department of Conservation Transport Operator Approved.
Secure Park & Shuttle transfer: Vehicle parking lot without restrictions.
Shuttle transfer to trail start
Hiking at own leisure.<br/>Duration: 30 minutes: Shuttle transfer from the only Tongariro Crossing Secure parking lot to the Tongariro Crossing trail start Mangatepopo Road.<br/>Vehicles: 24 seats Shuttle bus & 9 seats Shuttle van
4WD & Chains accessibility.<br/>Pickup included
IMPORTANT: We need your vehicle plate number asap! WhatsApp friendly.
Your day begins with our shuttle & transfer services where you are picked up from the only Tongariro Crossing Carpark without restrictions dependent on which departure time you choose. To compliment your already research of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing awareness and preparedness before coming with us the locals, we’ll also share our knowledge, culture and stories along the journey. All this information whilst you are driven to the heart of the Tongariro National Park, Aotearoa New Zealand’s known best one-day hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
On transfer to the beginning of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track at Mangatepopo Road which will take around 30-40 minutes. You're journey naturally experiences our ‘Maōri blessings’ where everyone gathers together. A speech in Maōri is given with acknowledgements and respect which is then explained in English approximately 5-minutes in total.
After the korero speech in Maōri, and English, there will then be a team photo, first one for safety, second one for fun! This photo is available free from the social media pages and website.
Self hiking tip when descending down from off the mountain or just to help to take that little extra pressure off your legs suggest usage of walking poles (not inclusive).
In the afternoon when you finish the Tongariro Crossing trail end platform of Ketetahi, from here it’s only another 900 metres walk downhill to your parked vehicle in the parking lot. Parking for your all day convenience and leisure to hike the Tongariro Crossing without time restraints.
IMPORTANT SAFETY FIRST INFORMATION - Know before you go
New Zealand’s weather is unpredictable. Always check forecasts and expect four seasons in a day.
We work closely with New Zealand’s Department of Conservation Weather Forecasts & Mountain Safety Council to encourage you and to follow their adventure outdoor safety code.
• Wear good quality hiking boots
• Layer your clothes - avoid cotton - thermal and fleeces are a good choice as they stay warm when wet
• Water and windproof outerwear is essential
• Take a warm hat and gloves even when it's hot - you don’t want to be caught out by the weather
• Good to have spare toilet paper and hand sanitizer as not provided at the non-composting toilets along the Tongariro trail.
• Wear and pack high factor sun protection
• Your food and water intake will be higher - pack plenty of water to avoid dehydration and extra food with a high energy value
• During daylight savings hours, make sure you pack a torch in case you return later than expected
• Respect people, respect the land, and respect our environment, for preservation. Please Pack in what you Pack out
Required, your vehicle plate number, inform us asap please.
We Backyard Tours will receive your booking confirmation online, therefore we’ll have your details so it is not necessary to print out your transport transfer confirmation saving paper and contributing to the sustainability of our environment.
Should you require assistance please text message +64223142656 the night before.
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.
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.
The highest mountain in the North Island, offering skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
A gateway to the park with visitor facilities, museums, and cultural exhibits.
Traditional Maori meal cooked in an earth oven with meat, vegetables, and sometimes puddings.
New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, often grilled or roasted.
Summer offers the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is most popular during this time.
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
GMT+12
230VV, 50HzHz
Tongariro National Park is generally safe, but weather conditions can change rapidly.
National Park Village
National Park Village
Buses are available but not frequent. Schedule in advance.
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Car, Bike, Scooter
A challenging hike to the summit of an active volcano, offering stunning views.
A charming town known for its carrot-themed attractions and access to the park.
Price varies by option