Tongariro Alpine Crossing
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New Zealand Tourism » Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing in
Tongariro National Park is a tramping track in New Zealand, and is among the
most popular day hikes in the country. The
Tongariro National Park is a World Heritage site which has the distinction
of dual status, as it has been acknowledged for both its natural and cultural
significance.
The crossing passes over the volcanic terrain of the multi-cratered active
volcano Mount Tongariro, passing the eastern
base of Mount Ngauruhoe. The full distance of
the track is usually 19.4-kilometre (12.1 mi).
Most of the walk is through raw volcanic terrain. The three volcanoes in the
area are all highly active and the terrain reflects this.
Solidified lava flows, loose tephra, and solidified volcanic lava bombs abound.
Large amounts of minerals are brought to the surface and are highly visible in
the colours of rocks and ridges. Active fumaroles abound on several sections of
the walk, constantly emitting steam and sulphur dioxide gas into the air and
depositing yellow sulphur specks around their edges.
The lakes and pools on the walk are deeply coloured by the volcanic minerals
dissolved in them. Some areas feature large springs emitting near-boiling water
and torrents of steam. The terrain underfoot for most of the walk is either
sharp edged new volcanic rock or loose and shifting tephra, mainly ash and
lapilli. In some crater areas it is finer ash that has become moist and
compacted.
Getting There
This tourist attraction is well serviced by public transport including taxis,
buses and shuttle.
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