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The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the world’s most iconic hikes. With its stunning views and immense cultural significance, it’s no wonder that it draws hikers from all around the world.
But increased numbers of visitors to the Tongariro National Park have put strain on car parking resources. With new parking restrictions at the trailheads, Tongariro Crossing shuttles are now the most popular way of getting to and from the track.
This post contains my local picks of the best Tongariro Crossing shuttles to make your trip as easy as possible.
The Best Tongariro Crossing Shuttles.
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE
Some of the booking links below may not work between June to October (incl.) each year due to seasonal concession restrictions on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Alpine skills & equipment are required to hike the Crossing during this time and shuttle transport may not operate. Please visit the DOC page for more info about hiking the Crossing outside of peak season.
✔️ Locally owned & operated since 1998!
✔️ Trail map & info sheet provided before you start.
Best Park & Ride Tongariro Crossing Shuttles.
A park & ride Tongariro shuttle service is a great option for those looking to do the Tongariro Crossing by using a combination of their own car and a shuttle service. Once booked, the park & ride services will pick you up from the Tongariro shuttle car park on State Highway 46 (Ketetahi Road) or in the private Tongariro Alpine Crossing shuttle carpark at various times throughout the morning.
This option allows you to take your time hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing without having to rush along under the pressure of having to meet your return Tongariro shuttle at the other end. And all for a very reasonable cost.
Here are my picks of the best Park & Ride services to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
1. ⭐ #1 Top Pick – Ketetahi Park n Ride Tongariro Crossing Shuttle
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | Location: State Highway 46 | 🗓️ Check Rates & Availability
Active Outdoor Adventures are one of only a handful of Tongariro shuttle services that allow you to leave your car in the secure all-day Ketetahi carpark (end of Ketetahi Rd on State Highway 46 – more providers listed below). Since Covid they have partnered with other local operators to ensure the sustainability of businesses for the Crossing. The carpark has 24/7 video surveillance and a guard stationed until 5pm. It opens in time for the first shuttle departure at 7am and closes at 7pm.
“Easy to find carpark and not too far from end of the track. Transport departed on time, clean and safe. Great operator!”
– Mark (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Owned and operated by tangata whenua (local Māori tribes) you can rest safe in the knowledge that this company respects the local culture and environment and will give you plenty of cultural insights on your way to the track (as well as a full safety briefing.) Arrive at least 15 mins prior to your departure time to avoid any issues.
Pickup Location: Ketetahi secure all-day capark, State Highway 46
Departure Times: 7AM, 8AM, 9AM
Return Time: Any time (carpark closes at 7pm).
✅ Pros: Very secure all-day carparking for your own vehicle.
❌ Cons: 15-20 min walk down Ketetahi Rd at the end of your hike to the carpark.
2. Tongariro Expeditions Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle Options
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | Location: State Highway 46 | 🗓️ Check Rates & Availability
Jared and Mandy at Tongariro Expeditions have been running Tongariro Crossing shuttles to and from the trailheads since 1998! It’s fair to say they know the Tongariro Crossing (and Tongariro National Park) very well, and know how dangerous this hike can be.
Which is why they say they don’t operate their Tongariro shuttle service unless they are prepared to be up there themselves! Their service has been around for generations, and as a result comes with very high recommendations.
“All went absolutely perfect. Punctual, efficient, nice. We even left early once the everybody was in with no unnecessary waste of time.”
– FABIO (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Tongariro Expeditions offer discounted rates for seniors, students and children if you book a group of 10 or more. They also offer a map and information sheet before you start your hike which will give you some great info on how to stay safe when you’re on the mountain.
They are the earliest shuttle to Tongariro Crossing from the Ketetahi area, and ask that you arrive at Ketetahi 30 mins before your planned departure time to avoid any delays. Park your car anywhere along the roadside at State Highway 46 on your arrival (just not in any No Parking zones) and then meet the shuttle at the entrance to the carpark before departure.
Pickup Location: State Highway 46, end of Ketetahi Road (view map).
Departure Times: 6.30AM, 7.30AM, 8.30AM
Return Time: Any time.
✅ Pros: Map and information sheet provided before your hike.
❌ Cons: 15-20 min walk down Ketetahi Rd at the end of your hike to your car.
Best Tongariro Crossing Shuttles from National Park Village.
3. Tongariro Expeditions National Park Return Shuttles
⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Location: National Park Village | 🗓️ Check Rates & Availability
Tongariro Crossing shuttles offer 4 daily departures from the free Park n Ride facility at the train station in National Park village. Due to the distance from the Tongariro Crossing trailheads, this is a return shuttle service so you need to meet your return Tongariro shuttle at the Ketetahi trailhead at the end of your hike. There are between 4 and 5 return times daily depending on if you are trekking mid-week or at the weekend or public/school holidays.
“The shuttle is punctual. Several possible stops to your National Park accommodation. Friendly atmosphere and the driver will accompany you.”
– Reviewer from France (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Tongariro Expeditions’ shuttle service is the earliest shuttle to Tongariro Crossing, getting you there before anyone else. They also have the latest pickup time, meaning they’re a great option for slower hikers who need to catch a round-trip shuttle.
Being local to the area, they monitor the weather closely to ensure you have the most up to date information at the time of your trip. They take their role as a Department of Conservation concessionaire seriously, and may refuse to drop you off at the trailhead if you are not properly prepared for this trek.
Pickup Location: Park n Ride carpark, end of Findlay St outside National Park train station (view map)
Departure Times: 5.45AM, 7.15AM, 8.30AM, 9.45AM
Return Time: 1.30PM, 3.00PM, 4.15PM, 5.30PM
Return Times (weekends, public/school holidays): 1.30PM, 2.30PM, 3.30PM, 4.30PM, 5.30PM
✅ Pros: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
❌ Cons: Further away from main centres like Tūrangi & Taupō if just driving in for the day.
Best Tongariro Crossing Shuttle from Taupō.
4. Tongariro Expeditions Taupo Return Shuttle
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | Location: Taupo | 🗓️ Check Rates & Availability
If you’re staying in Taupō and don’t have a vehicle, or if you’d prefer not to take your own vehicle to the Tongariro Crossing, this is the best Tongariro Crossing shuttle for you. Tongariro Expeditions offers a flexible pickup service.
You can either meet at the Taupō iSite at 30 Tongariro Street or arrange a pickup from your accommodation. The shuttle company asks that you are ready and waiting outside at least 10 minutes prior to your departure time.
“Professionals. They know the place and are very good to prepare the visitors. Because of crazy weather they changed our trip, so that we started from behind and returned when we came to the Blue Lake.”
– Anonymous Reviewer (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Leaving at 5.15AM daily, this Tongariro Crossing shuttle from Taupo will ensure you’ll be at the Mangatepopo trailhead ready to start your trek by around 7.00AM. This gives you 6 – 8 hours to complete your hike, with a daily pickup time of 3.30PM from the Ketetahi trailhead. You’ll arrive back in Taupō around 5.00PM.
Tongariro Expeditions provide a map and information sheet to all Tongariro Crossing hikers before they start their trek to help them plan their progress to ensure they don’t miss their shuttle. Tongariro Expeditions know the area well and offer plenty of flexibility for bad weather and other situations if required.
Pickup Location: Taupo iSite & Visitor Information, 30 Tongairo Street, Taupō (view map) or arrange a pickup from your accommodation.
Departure Times: 5.15AM
Return Time: 3.30PM
✅ Pros: Plenty of flexible options for bad weather hiking due to local knowledge.
❌ Cons: Early pickup time of 3.30pm may not be suitable for slower hikers.
Best Tongariro Crossing Shuttles from Tūrangi.
5. Active Outdoor Adventures (& Partners) Shuttle from Turangi
Location: Turangi | 🗓️ Check Rates & Availability
Active Outdoor Adventures are owned and operated by James and Rongo who are tangata whenua (local Māori tribe). This means you can rest safe in the knowledge that they and their partners respect the local culture and environment. Plus you’ll get plenty of cultural insights on your way to the trailhead (as well as a full safety briefing.)
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE
Please note that since Covid this service may be operated by one of Active Outdoor Adventures’ local partners. Help support the regeneration of small tourism operators in Aotearoa by opting for small local companies such as this.
“James our driver provided friendly door to door service from and to our accommodation. I enjoyed the brief historical information he provided and it was nice to start our walk off with a karakia. The cold beer at the end of the walk was particularly enjoyable!!! I would highly recommend this company.”
– KIRI (READ MORE REVIEWS)
They pick up from all major motels & backpackers in Tūrangi, as well as the Tūrangi iSite. They provide detailed instructions on where to collect the Tongariro shuttle at each location. The pickup time is daily at 6.30AM and they ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure. They offer free use of walking poles (although you may need to give them a heads up in advance) and (my personal favourite) a cold beer at the end of your hike!
Active Outdoor Adventures also offers ski & hiking shuttle transport to and from Whakapapa Village and Whakapapa ski field during the winter months, so you can still get a taste of hiking in the Tongariro National Park.
Pickup Location: All major hotels, motels & backpackers in Tūrangi, or the Tūrangi iSite.
Departure Times: 6.30AM (call +64 272284831 for more booking times & availability)
Return Time: To be confirmed upon booking
✅ Pros: Locally owned and operated tangata whenua business, cold drink at end of your trek!
❌ Cons: Only one pickup time from Tūrangi.
Best Tongariro Crossing Shuttles from Ohakune & Raetihi.
7. Dempsey Buses
Location: Ohakune & Raetihi | 🗓️ Check Rates & Availability
Based in Raetihi, Dempsey Buses offer flexible services for hikers staying in Raetihi, National Park and Ohakune. This reputable company will only operate its Tongariro Crossing shuttles if weather and conditions allow a safe trip. They offer differential pricing for adults and children making a good option for families hiking the Tongariro Crossing.
“Booking was easy through their website, they arrived on time at the pick up site and were waiting for us when we finished. They also provided a quick inform before we departed the bus ensuring they had correct contact details for us in the event that we didn’t make the pick up points and what to do if we didn’t complete the walk. Would definitely recommend again.”
– VICTORIA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dempsey buses offer free cancellation within 24 hours of booking and a full refund if they decide to cancel the trip due to bad weather. You can select a bespoke pickup location from the major accommodation providers in Raetihi and Ohakune, or meet at the Ohakune iSite. Pickup times start at around 6AM with the last pickup from Ohakune at 7AM.
Once you’ve finished your trek, Dempsey Buses will pick you up from the Ketetahi trailhead at one of their three designated afternoon pickup times. These times may change if weather or conditions are bad. Please note there is a minimum group size of 2 people with this service.
Pickup Location: Various locations in Ohakune and Raetihi (including major accommodation providers).
Departure Times: between 6.00AM and 7.00AM depending on pickup location.
Return Time: 2.30PM, 4.00PM, 5.30PM (changeable depending on weather).
✅ Pros: The only Tongariro shuttle provider which offers an advertised discounted rate for children.
❌ Cons: Minimum of 2 people required to book this service (or you will pay double).
SHUTTLE BOOKED & READY TO GO?
Find out what to pack & what to expect in my Ultimate Guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Why You Need A Tongariro Crossing Shuttle.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing plays host to hundreds of thousands of hikers each summer season. To ease the congestion on the trail and improve access to New Zealand’s most popular day hike, there is a 4 hour parking limit at the Mangatepopo and Ketetahi trailhead carparks during the peak season between October and April each year.
With these carparks now really only suited to hikers who are short on time and who seek only a ‘taster’ of this track, Tongariro Crossing shuttles are the only option for hikers wishing to experience the full length of this track (as well as ensuring that there’s enough room for everyone, and easing the strain on local resources).
But it’s not as bad as it seems. With the right shuttle service, hikers can avoid the hassle of finding a suitable parking spot and save time for what matters – enjoying the majestic views, diverse volcanic landscape and rich Maori culture.
Plus, you know that you’ll be well looked after. Tongariro Crossing shuttles are passionate about ensuring hikers are safe and well prepared – after all, this track has the highest rate of search and rescue callouts in New Zealand!
Most shuttle operators check the weather forecast so you have the most up to date information before you start your trek and often have flexible options if the weather makes it unsafe to complete the full trek. Don’t be surprised if they check your gear and clothing before you go – they want to make sure you don’t get into trouble while you’re up there!
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT BOOKING THE TONGARIRO CROSSING ⚠️
For the first time, a booking system was introduced for this track in July 2023. Hikers are now advised to make a booking before walking the Crossing (NOTE: bookings are required if you are taking a shuttle or guided walk). Whilst there is currently no cost for booking, or a daily cap on walker numbers, it’s possible this might be introduced from late 2024 onwards. Click here to find out more and make a booking.
By using Tongariro Crossing shuttles, hikers are doing their part to preserve the Tongariro National Park and its resources for future hikers. Plus, there’s the added bonus that you can start your hike feeling relaxed and refreshed – a great way to begin an epic adventure!
- it’s also a point to point hike, meaning it starts and finishes in different places.
- two types of shuttles (return and one way)
- doing the crossing without a shuttle? (i.e. using friends/family or hitchhiking).
Tongariro Crossing Parking.
The biggest headache for most people when planning their hike on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the parking situation.
This hiking trail is the most popular trail in New Zealand, and in past seasons has experienced up to 2,500 hikers in a single day. That puts a huge strain on not only the environment, but also the local resources like roads and parking.
Which is why in 2017 the Department of Conservation introduced 4 hour parking limits at both the Mangatepopo and Ketetahi car parks.
Mangatepopo & Ketetahi Car Parks
There are two car parks at either end of the Tongariro Crossing, which many people often think they can use when they are walking this track.
However, unless you’re planning just a short ‘taster’ hike (or hiking outside of peak season – not recommended without a guide), you won’t be able to use these car parks because of 4 hour parking restrictions at both Mangatepopo and Ketetahi car parks (scroll and zoom on the map below to see where these car parks are).
The parking restrictions were introduced as a way of ensuring that all visitors to Tongariro (no matter their fitness level) could have a chance to experience the trail. The car parks would often fill up quickly get full with people who were hiking the entire length of the Crossing, and those who just wanted to come and have a short stroll on it were missing out (because they couldn’t get parked).
For many years, the Mangatepopo car park would often be full by 6am in the morning, and people would start parking all along Mangatepopo Road, or even on State Highway 47 (and then walking up to an hour down Mangatepopo Rd before they even got to the trailhead!).
Although these two car parks still fill up very quickly, the difference is that the 4 hour restriction means you can usually get a park if you wait around for a bit. There is a warden stationed on site to enforce this restriction and keep things moving.
All of this means that if you’re planning to hike the whole Tongariro Crossing, your best option is to park either:
- at the secure all-day car park at the Ketetahi end of the track, or
- along the roadside on State Highway 46 at the Ketetahi end of the track.
Ketetahi Secure All Day Car Park
If you use the secure all day car park, there is a fee involved. But this fee is included in the cost of shuttle transport to the start of the track at Mangatepopo. NOTE: You cannot park in this car park unless you have a shuttle booking with one of the approved shuttle operators:
- Active Outdoor Adventures
- Backyard Tours
- Cross Roads
- National Park Shuttles
- Te Ha o Tongariro (although I can’t find any booking info for this provider)
- Tongariro Ancestor Trails
Roadside Parking on State Highway 46
If you’ve booked a Ketetahi Park n Ride shuttle with any other operator (not listed in the above list), your only option is to park along the roadside on State Highway 46. It’s not as secure or safe as the carpark, but the main traffic on this section of road is usually for Tongariro Crossing hikers.
list of all Tongariro Crossing Accommodation & Shuttle options.
Adventure Lodge & Motel — Offers a return shuttle from National Park Village to the Tongariro Crossing, with secure on-site parking available.
Tongariro Track Transport — This is a shuttle-only option but is connected to accommodation at Adventure Lodge & Motel.
Parkview Apartments – National Park — Close proximity to local pick-up points for Tongariro Crossing shuttles in National Park village.
Tongariro Holiday Park — Tongariro Expeditions partner with the Tongariro Holiday Park to pick up hikers, but you must book through their website.
Station Lodge Ohakune — Door to door transport to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Book your shuttle at check-in.
Tongariro Crossing Lodge — Centrally located accommodation in National Park Village means you’re well placed to collect another shuttle service.
Ruapehu Scenic Shuttles — Lots of options for summer and winter shuttle transport to the TAC, with return and one-way journeys available too.
Tongariro Expeditions — Reasonably priced options available for travel from further afield, such as Tūrangi and Taupō. Long time local provider (tried & tested).
Active Outdoor Adventures — Offers shuttle and private transport options from Tūrangi and National Park village, but also drop-offs to Whakapapa Village as well for Tongariro Northern Circuit and general day hikers.
Summit Shuttles — Both summer and winter shuttles available, pick up from National Park Village.
Tongariro Crossing Shuttles (top rated TripAdvisor) — Tried and tested well renowned local provider offering plenty of options for transport to the TAC and Whakapapa area.
Tongariro Volcanic Adventures — Connected to National Park Backpackers, offers a range of services not just limited to Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but also transport to Whakapapa Village and the Top of the Bruce Road (Mt Ruapehu).
The Alpine Co (Discovery) — Offers a bespoke and unique service, guaranteed to get you away from the crowds by getting you to the start of the TAC before any other shuttle provider (just after 5am).
Ruapehu Mountain Transport — Offers Tongariro Alpine Crossing track transport from National Park Village in the summer months, and skifield transport during winter.
Important Note: Tongariro Crossing Bookings
In October 2023 a booking system was introduced for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to monitor visitor numbers. It is now recommended that all Tongariro Crossing hikers make a booking via the online system before embarking on their walk.
If you are taking a shuttle to the Crossing, having an online booking is now a requirement. Your shuttle company may sort your booking for you, or you may need to make the booking yourself and provide proof of confirmation before your trip.
I recommend checking with your shuttle provider well in advance.
FAQs: Tongariro Crossing Shuttles.
Do you need a shuttle for the Tongariro Crossing?
You don’t need a shuttle for the Tongariro Crossing, but using a shuttle company makes getting to & from the track much easier. Carparking limits at both Mangatepopo and Ketetahi carparks (the two trailheads) mean you can’t leave your personal vehicle there all day. Most Tongariro Crossing hikers park their car at the Ketetahi carpark, and get a shuttle bus to the start of the track.
How long does Tongariro Shuttle take?
Depending on where you catch your Tongariro Crossing shuttle from, the ride could take as little as 20 minutes (Ketetahi or National Park park and ride shuttle services) to as much as an hour or more (from Taupo or further).
What is the earliest shuttle to Tongariro Crossing?
The earliest shuttle to the Tongariro Crossing is the one which departs the Ketetahi Park and Ride car park at 5.15am each morning during peak season. This will get you to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing by 5.45am.
How do I get to Tongariro National Park without a car?
It’s possible to catch a bus, train or even hitchhike to the Tongariro National Park. The Auckland to Wellington scenic train service stops at National Park Village, and Intercity buses also go through National Park. You can also get a shuttle bus from nearby centres like Taupō, Tūrangi and Ohakune, or you can try your hand at hitchhiking (if you don’t have a set schedule).
Is there a shuttle from Ketetahi car park to Mangatepopo?
Yes, in fact there is more than one Tongariro shuttle from Ketetahi car park to Mangatepopo. X out of Y of the shuttle companies in this post can pick you up from the park and ride carpark on State Highway 46. Note that this is the car park at the end of Ketetahi Road, not the smaller car park right at the end of the official walking route (which has a 4 hour parking restriction).
Final Thoughts: Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttles.
Tongariro Crossing shuttles are a fantastic option for hikers looking to make the most of their time in this incredible national park. With so many different options to choose from, it is important to do your research and find the right service for you.
By using Tongariro Crossing shuttles you can ensure that there is enough room for everyone, help preserve the resources of the national park and get a head start on an amazing experience!
Make sure to also check out my Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
/newslett
