The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a hike across alpine terrain and active volcanoes. For this, you must be properly equipped and prepared. As a DOC licensed concessionaire for the crossing we are required to ensure people have all that they need to hike and enjoy the national park safely. We take this responsibility seriously and reserve the right to refuse transport to people that we feel are not properly equipped.
Children under 7 years of age are not permitted to travel with us due to the length of the hike and the unstable weather conditions throughout the year.
Must Have Items
Your Phone – a Map – Solid Walking Boots or Shoes – a Proper Raincoat/Windbreaker – Layers of Warm Clothing – Water (at least 1.5 litres per person) – Food for the day – Warm Hat – Sun Hat – Sunscreen – First Aid Kit (including safety blanket) – carried in a comfortable Backpack
Good To Have Items
Waterproof Pants (weather changes quickly) – a Torch – Gloves – Energy Food
Footwear – boots or shoes should be very solid with a firm sole and good tread. This track is very rocky. People often want to walk in running shoes. Some are fine as they are heavier and provide the necessary support and protection but many are too light and are meant more for the yoga studio than the mountains. Also note that your expensive shoes will likely get very torn up on the rough terrain by sharp volcanic rock. Do not wear jandals, open toed sandals or gumboots.
Clothing – lots of layers. The weather can change with alarming speed. You must be prepared for all weather conditions. The weather in the car park can be different to what you will find nearly 1000 meters higher and further up the track. Do not wear jeans as they make you hot in summer, don’t keep you warm in winter and stay wet if it rains.
Hats – a warm hat takes up very little space and is vital in maintaining body heat. The crossing has almost no trees so you will be in the sun all day. Bring a sun hat to protect your head, neck and face. Sun screen alone is not enough
First Aid – The usual plasters, ointments, etc, but also a safety blanket. Essentially a large foil bag, this is cheap, easy to carry, very small and will likely save someone’s life when things don’t go as planned
Torch – Small, easy to carry. Vital if you unexpectedly find yourself finishing the crossing in the dark. Using a phone as a torch will drain the battery and usually will not last long.
Equipment rental
The following in National Park Village can rent boots, wet weather gear, backpacks and walking poles
