Tongariro Crossing Car Park

Tongariro Crossing Car Park is an essential starting point for those who want to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is considered one of the best day hikes in New Zealand. The car park is located at the Mangatepopo end of the trail on the west side of the mountains. To get there, take Mangatepopo Road off State Highway 47 for 7km (4 miles) to the car park.

The car park is open all day and has a capacity of 200 cars. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, as the car park fills up quickly.

For those who want to walk straight back to their car after completing the hike, the closest and only all-day secure car park is the Tongariro Transport Hub, also known as the Ketetahi Car Park, located at the end of the trail. This car park is secure and offers shuttle services to the start of the hike. It is also the only car park that allows hikers to walk straight back to their car without having to catch a shuttle at a certain time. There are shuttle services available from nearby towns such as Whakapapa, Turangi, Ohakune, Taumarunui, or Taupo, which can take hikers to the start of the hike. Private travel agencies also offer shuttle services, and the average cost for a return ticket is NZD 35-45. It is recommended to book the shuttle ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Backyard Tours is a small family-owned business that offers affordable shuttle services from your accommodation in Turangi and from the Tongariro Transport Hub. They provide an authentic introduction to the Tongariro Crossing with local knowledge shared along the journey and cultural blessings before you depart on your adventure. They also offer services for those who want to do the Crossing from Auckland or Wellington. In summary, Tongariro Crossing Car Park is an essential starting point for those who want to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. There are shuttle services available from nearby towns, and the Tongariro Transport Hub is the closest and only all-day secure car park that allows hikers to walk straight back to their car without having to catch a shuttle at a certain time. It is recommended to book the shuttle ahead of time to avoid disappointment.