We just had another inquiry seeking advice on the best time to book for the Tongariro Crossing? At this time between seasons, the weather is so unpredictable that we suggest everyone also needs a Plan”B”.

(The following is an update of TRM’s report at the same time last year which was a repeat of the year before…)

Alternatives to the Tongariro Crossing?

At this time of the year, when looking forward in anticipation of the warmer summer months ahead, many are hoping to complete one of the “iconic” great walks of NZ – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Inevitably SWMBO (She Who Must Be Obeyed is Manager of everything She can see at TRM) is asked about it and the following brief video clip is Her usual reply.

One essential ingredient, to include in the planning, is fine weather. Never rely on any TV forecast for Taupo – located 50 km north of Turangi, while the alpine trails on the central plateau are 50 km south. A better long-term weather forecast planning aid would be to time it by the moon phases. i.e. The next full moon is October 25th, November 24th, and December 23rd. Then the weather is usually more settled.

The Tongariro Crossing is more suitable for families and those looking for a very long tiring exposed alpine tramp with wide views and all the other features expected in this Central Plateau region.

Trampers need to be aware of possible delays from crowding and parking issues at peak times so the use of a shuttle bus service is recommended.

BUT if the aim is to get away from the crowds – much more sensible – then perhaps the Tongariro Crossing should be avoided. The track from the Chateau Tongariro to the Taranaki Falls and onto the Tama Lakes would be a better option to avoid parking issues.

Other local alternatives are the Kaimanawa Ranges. The Kaimanawa Road access off the Desert Road has two well-signposted tracks – the Urchins Track to the ridge 1392m. or the Umukarikari track to 1591m. above the snow line both provide dramatic views back west towards the central plateau peaks and Lake Taupo. If these were located in the South Island they would be promoted as another “Great Walk”!

For those looking for a little more excitement and more of a real challenge, this alternative climb up higher to 2797m is recommended as a far more satisfying achievement… watch the brief video:

The video was taken on Auckland Anniversary weekend in late January 2015 when everywhere else was crowded. Since then the “sky waka” gondolas have been installed to carry trampers up to the highest cafe in NZ. The gondolas replace the original old chairlifts in the video – now recycled by SWMBO in Her garden paradise…

Last, if you miss the fine weather pattern, TRM suggest Plan “B” by breaking it down to three smaller 2-hour walking tracks, first the Taranaki Falls loop on Mt. Ruapehu, recover in a cafe at Whakapapa before stage 2 – a level stroll around a hidden lake, and last stage a two hour loop around the most famous trout fishing river in NZ. The total time walking is usually less than six hours, probably less time than needed to complete the Tongariro Crossing, with far less exertion and providing more variety and views.