All You Need to Know About the Tongariro Northern Circuit

Experience a spectacular walk at the renowned Tongariro Northern Circuit. Traverse the stunning alpine crossing surrounding the active volcano in the Tongariro National Park, Mount Ngauruhoe.  

Plan your exciting hiking adventure in the North Island with this comprehensive guide to make the most of your trekking journey

The Tongariro Northern Circuit Overview

Hailed as one of the Great Walks of New Zealand, the Tongariro Circuit is a 41-kilometre circuit that surrounds the summit of Mount Ngauruhoe, which is the country’s most active volcano that boasts the most perfectly formed cone in the Tongariro National Park.  

You can expect to discover volcanic craters, explosion pits, lava flows, and the breathtaking view of Emerald Lakes, which makes for an unforgettable trekking experience. 

The Great Walks are available for exploration from late October through the end of April. So, if you desire to go for a Tongariro Northern Circuit hike beyond those dates, booking a hiking tour with an experienced guide is essential.

Getting to the Trailhead

The Tongariro Circuit trailhead is at the Whakapapa Village in the Tongariro National Park. If you travel by car, you can find an available parking space at the trailhead that allows you to stay for extended periods for free.  

It is crucial to note that the car parks at each end of the trail quickly reach their maximum parking capacity during the Great Walks season.  

If you wish to explore the Tongariro crossing but your hiking trip falls during the peak season, you can opt for a shuttle service from the National Park Village, Turangi, Taupo, and other shuttle bus operators to and from the track.  

You can book a shuttle bus service weeks before your trip to ensure hassle-free access to the trailhead. But make sure to specify that you won’t need any pick-up service for the driver's benefit at the end of the day.

Towns Near the Circuit

Various towns surround the Tongariro Great Walk, which you can check out to ensure a fun and convenient experience during your trip.  

While these towns offer limited accommodation options, you can still look for an excellent place to stay in the area if you don’t want to stay in the service huts in the circuit.

Accommodation

This Great Walk features three huts managed by the Department of Conservation. Every hut has a nearby campsite, so those hikers who want to experience Tongariro Northern Circuit camping can stay on the excellent campgrounds within the trail.  

Moreover, the cabins come with comfortable bunk beds with mattresses during peak seasons. The Department of Conservation also provides hikers with heating, toilets, gas cooking facilities, solar-powered lighting, and cold running water.  

They also station a DOC ranger to monitor and facilitate the huts. But, during the off-Great Walk season, no rangers are on the site, and facilities are limited to use.  

Make sure to decide and organise your Tongariro Northern Circuit hut booking to ensure a cozy and relaxing stay during your hiking adventure.

Hiking in the Tongariro Northern Circuit

While the Great Walk season runs from late October to the end of April, the best time to explore the Tongariro Northern Circuit is during summer.  

It is the prime season for trekking on the Tongariro Circuit because of the excellent weather conditions, giving you a comfortable hiking experience and longer daylight tramping hours while highlighting its captivating landscape and wildlife.  

But whenever you want to explore and uncover the wonders of the Tongariro Circuit, you can book any fun and affordable multi-day hiking packages by New Zealand Walks.  

Tongariro Three Day Guided Northern Circuit

Explore the Tongariro Northern Circuit in 3 days with an experienced private guide and have an unforgettable trekking adventure. Journey across the trail and discover its marvellous landscape, from the alpine herb fields to the volcano craters.  

And there’s no need to worry about transport, accommodation, meals, and other hiking essentials because they are already included in this fantastic tour package. So, you can focus on your refreshing trekking journey.

Tongariro Lodge Based Four Day Guided Walk

Embark on an exciting day walk in the middle of the breathtaking alpine and volcanic scenery of the Tongariro National Park, including the majestic alpine passage and Mt. Ruapehu.  

This four day guided walk package offers convenient transport to and from Rotorua or Taupo and a relaxing three-night stay in a three-star lodge accommodation. You are also served delectable meals, snacks, and drinks throughout your trip.  

You also get to go on an invigorating hike over the varied and rocky terrain of the circuit with an experienced private guide who will be with you at every step of the trail.  

How to Prepare for the Tongariro Northern Circuit Hike

Get a remarkable experience hiking in one of the Great Walks on the Northern Island and traversing through the unique Tongariro Northern Circuit elevation by following these tips:

Check the Weather Forecast

Have a fun and safe trekking journey in the Tongariro circuit by checking the weather forecast before your trip.  

Since the weather in the region often changes, it pays to be prepared for unpredictable conditions by planning how to hike on diverse terrains and altitudes during hot or wet weather.

Research the Circuit Length and Difficulty

Always put your safety first when going for a hiking adventure. You can examine the Tongariro Northern Circuit map first to learn the length of the track. Understanding the track length helps you to plan and hike efficiently.  

Don’t forget to research the difficulty level of the circuit to help you determine whether your trekking skills and physical fitness suit the demands and challenges of the trail.  

It also helps you identify the potential risks on the trail and generate appropriate solutions for a more enjoyable hike.

Pack the Right Clothes and Gear

Trekking requires appropriate clothing and gear for a hassle-free and comfortable journey. The varied landscapes of the trail, such as the alpine areas and volcanic terrain, need adaptable clothing to get by with changing weather conditions.  

Bringing compact, high-quality, and suitable hiking equipment also helps you easily finish the Tongariro Northern Circuit hike. And don’t forget to bring food, water, and other essentials to keep you replenished during the hike.

Experience an Exciting Tongariro Northern Circuit Hike with Us

Unveil the magnificence of the Tongariro Circuit in the Tongariro National Park and experience traversing through a stunning alpine lunar landscape and around an active volcano by booking a tour with us.

Check out our Tongariro hiking tour package options and contact us to schedule your most-awaited adventure by calling +64 3 5736655.

Posted by on June 10, 2024