Private Tongariro Crossing with Adrift: Crampons and Ice Axes Supplied in Winter

53 Carroll St, Waimarino

Adrift Tongariro

The 19-kilometre track climbs to the saddle between Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, past craters of different colours and shapes that were active at different times, scoured volcanic rock, mountain springs and the emerald lakes. The colours are sulphur, aluminium, silica and other minerals brought up from the crust. In summer the track is busy, and the guide takes you away from the crowd where that is possible without missing the sights people come for. In winter the same ground is under snow and largely empty: crampons and ice axes are supplied and the instruction is given on the day, so no alpine experience is needed. Reaching the Ketetahi end is not guaranteed. Weather, avalanche risk, ice and hypothermia decide the exact route each morning. Bookings are taken from individuals as well as groups. Solo travellers should book, because minimum numbers are usually met, particularly in good weather. Included: guide or guides, transport between the Adrift Tongariro base and the track, lunch with a vegetarian option on request at booking, crampons and ice axes when winter conditions require them, and NZ$40 of clothing and footwear hire (boots $20, clothing $10 per item). The day starts and ends at the Adrift Tongariro base, 53 Carroll St, National Park Village. Summer runs 1 October to 30 April, meeting at 8:00am and returning 5:30pm. Winter runs 1 May to 30 September, meeting at 7:00am and returning 5:30pm. Meeting at the base is deliberate: everything needed for the day's conditions is kept there. Return transfers cost extra and need at least two people. Whakapapa Village $35pp, summer pick-up 7:50am, winter 6:50am, return 5:30pm. Turangi $125pp, 7:15am summer, 6:15am winter, return 5:45pm. Ohakune $125pp, 7:30am summer, no winter service, return 6:00pm. Taupo CBD $225pp, 6:20am summer, 5:20am winter, return 6:30pm. Summer gear: 1-2 litres of water, personal medication, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a backpack each, hiking boots or shoes, walking trousers, one light top and two warm layers, waterproof raincoat. Winter gear: 1-1.5 litres of water, personal medication, sunscreen, sunglasses, backpack, hiking boots, thermal longs or walking trousers with over-trousers, three warm top layers, waterproof raincoat, warm hat and gloves. Hire covers what you do not own: boots, socks, thermal and fleece layers, waterproofs, gloves, hats, sunglasses, backpacks, walking poles, sleeping bags and liners. Walking takes about seven hours including stops and needs reasonable fitness. Raise any doubts with the guide before starting, because there are options. No alpine experience is required. Everyone must phone the base on +64 7892 2751 between 10:00am and 5:00pm the day before to confirm the departure time.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The one-day walk, with an experienced guide alongside.