Visiting Tongariro National Park during your road trip through New Zealand

One of the most impressive places on New Zealand's North Island is Tongariro National Park. This national park is known for its volcanic landscapes, craters, lava fields, bright blue lakes and rugged mountain peaks. In some places it almost feels as if you're walking on another planet.

Tongariro National Park is not just any natural area. It is New Zealand's oldest national park and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for both its natural value and its cultural significance to the Māori. The volcanoes in the area, including Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu, play an important role in the country's history and culture.

For many travellers, Tongariro National Park is an absolute highlight during a road trip across the North Island. The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing in particular attracts travellers from all over the world. This hike is often mentioned as one of New Zealand's most beautiful day walks.

What makes Tongariro National Park special?

Tongariro National Park is completely different from many other places in New Zealand. Where you'll mainly see green hills, lakes or forests in other places, here you walk through a rugged volcanic landscape. Think black lava fields, red craters, steaming ground, brightly coloured lakes and views of active volcanoes.

The park has also become famous through The Lord of the Rings. Mount Ngauruhoe was used as inspiration for Mount Doom, making the area extra special for fans of the films. Yet Tongariro is impressive enough even without that connection. The nature is raw, open and at times almost surreal.

Travelling by Campervan through New Zealand, Tongariro National Park is a logical stop between Lake Taupo, Rotorua and Wellington. It's centrally located on the North Island and therefore fits well into your Campervan journey.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The most famous activity in the park is without a doubt the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This walk is approximately 19.4 kilometres long and runs right through the volcanic heart of the national park. You walk past lava fields, craters, mountain passes and the famous Emerald Lakes.

The hike is beautiful, but also challenging. You walk for several hours through open terrain, climb considerably and then descend a long stretch. Reckon on an average of 6 to 8 hours walking, depending on your pace, the weather and how many breaks you take.

The highlight of the route for many travellers is the view at the Red Crater and the Emerald Lakes. The colours of the lakes are almost surreal and form an enormous contrast with the dark volcanic landscape surrounding them.

Although the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a popular hike, don't underestimate it. It's not a short walk, but a serious day hike in alpine terrain. Good shoes, warm clothing, rain protection, sufficient water and food are really important.

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Important to know about the Tongariro Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is not a loop walk. You start at a different place from where you finish. That's why most travellers use a shuttle bus. This takes you to the starting point and picks you up at the end of the route, or the other way round, depending on the provider.

The weather plays a major role on this hike. Even in summer it can be cold, windy and foggy at the top of the mountain. In bad weather the walk can become dangerous and shuttles are sometimes cancelled. Therefore always check the weather forecast in advance and listen to the advice of local shuttle companies or DOC.

For several years now, a booking system has been in operation for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This is intended to regulate crowds and better protect the area. Therefore, always check the current rules and reservation options in advance before planning your hike.

Other walks in Tongariro National Park

Although the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the most famous walk, there are other beautiful hikes in the park as well. These are ideal if you have less time, if the weather isn't good enough for the Crossing, or if you simply want to do an extra walk.

Taranaki Falls Track

The Taranaki Falls Track is a beautiful circular walk of approximately 6 kilometres. The route starts at Whakapapa Village and takes you through open landscape, past lava fields and eventually to an impressive waterfall.

This walk is much more accessible than the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and usually takes 2 to 3 hours. It's a great option if you're looking for a shorter hike but still want to get a good sense of the volcanic landscape.

Tama Lakes Track

The Tama Lakes Track is a longer and quieter walk that takes you to two crater lakes between Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe. The route is approximately 17 kilometres return and takes an average of 5 to 6 hours.

This hike is less well-known than the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but absolutely worth doing. You walk through open volcanic landscape and get beautiful views of the surrounding mountains along the way. Because the route is less busy, it often feels much more peaceful.

Staying overnight with a Campervan at Tongariro National Park

If you're travelling by Campervan through New Zealand, there are several places where you can stay overnight near Tongariro National Park. Popular bases are National Park Village, Whakapapa Village and Turangi.

National Park Village is handy if you want to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, as many shuttle companies depart from here. Turangi is a bit further away, but is also a popular spot with campsites, shops and good connections towards Lake Taupo.

Freedom camping in and around the national park is limited and depends on local rules. Always check carefully where you're allowed to stay, especially if you're travelling with a self-contained Campervan. If you want convenience, a holiday park or campground in National Park Village or Turangi is often the best choice.

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How long do you need for Tongariro National Park?

For Tongariro National Park I'd recommend at least two nights. That gives you one full day for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and some extra flexibility for the weather. It would be a shame if you only had one chance and the hike couldn't go ahead due to bad weather.

If you have more time, you can also walk Taranaki Falls or Tama Lakes in addition to the Crossing. Especially if you enjoy hiking, this area is worth more than one day.

Practical tips for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

• Prepare well if you want to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Bring enough water and food, wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers. The weather can change quickly and at the top of the mountain it can be much colder than below.
• Book your shuttle in time, especially during high season. Also always check the current weather forecast and the status of the track. Don't walk if local experts or shuttle companies indicate that conditions aren't safe.
• Also keep in mind that you're walking through a special and culturally important landscape. Stay on the paths, take all your rubbish with you and respect the environment.