The Department of Conservation encourage visitors to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to book in advance for visits after 14 October. There is no cost to book. For more information, head here.
Going prepared is always good hiking education and shows a good understanding of safety in the outdoors. Preparation is key and will ensure you have a fantastic, comfortable experience.
The weather can spin on a dime in the mountains, and calm blue skies can often change to a fully-fledged blizzard in the space of a few hours. To hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing safely and in comfort, it is essential to plan well in advance and ensure that you are packing for any condition. It is well worth the effort to pack some extra layers before you venture outside into the crisp mountain air.
What you'll need
- A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential. Waterproof overtrousers are good to have also.
- Warm wool, polypropylene, or fleece base layers (tops and leggings)
- Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good soles. Boots are better as they give ankle support and are normally waterproof
- Food is not available for purchase on the track. Bring food that is lightweight and high energy, such as cereal bars, dried fruit/nuts, crackers/sandwiches, fresh fruit
- Water is not available on the track (stream and lake water is not OK to drink). Bring a water bottle or hydration pack of 1 - 3 litres
- First aid kit (sunscreen, blister kits, pain relief, band-aids/bandages, personal medications)
- Sunglasses and sunhat
- Warm hat and warm gloves
- Map and compass or GPS. The track is well marked but you should have at least a basic map with you
- Your camera!
