Tongariro Northern Circuit - Guided

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The Tongariro Northern Circuit in Tongariro National Park is a 3-day hike starting on Mt Ruapehu and encircles Mt Ngauruhoe, and has been designated one of the Great Walks of New Zealand.. The circuit can be started from different points and walked in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track, explosion craters, lava flows, Tama Lakes, Taranaki Falls and the Rangipo and Otarere deserts, are explored on this trek. This trek is a good way to enjoy the Tongariro National Park at a less energetic pace, whilst avoiding the crowds of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Mt Ngauruhoe had sporadic action during its last eruptions of 1973-1975. Since 1839, Ngauruhoe has erupted 61 times with breaks lasting no more than nine years (until 1975), and it is this regular activity that formed the perfect symmetry of its cone shape.

Below is the route most people enjoy the most but is a template only and is changed continually depending on the weather conditions and what you want to see achieve and enjoy.  

Itinerary

Stay a night before and after your walk with accommodation at Whakapapa.

Day 1

Start at Whakapapa Village and head for the Tama Saddle and then onto the Waihohonu Hut (6 hours approx). En-route is the Tama Lakes and Taranaki Falls.

Day 2

Waihohonu Hut to the Oturere Hut. Approximately 3-4 hours on the eastern flanks of Tongariro. This is a relatively easy day and is a welcome rest after yesterday which some see as requiring an intermediate level of effort. We can rest and enjoy the leisurely pace or go exploring in the Otarere Desert where fossilised charcoaled remnants of the forest destroyed by the great eruption of Lake Taupo in 186 AD, can easily be found.

Day 3

Otarere Hut up to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and North to Ketetahi. This is a 6-7 hour day where we climb up to the Red Crater on the Tongariro Crossing and then descend to Ketetahi, following the traditional Tongariro Alpine Crossing route. This leg covers the famous scenery spots of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing including Red Crater, the Emerald and Blue Lakes and Ketetahi Hot Springs.

General Terms and Conditions

Prices are based on a minimum of 2 people. Single customers will be accepted upon availability with a surcharge. If possible and agreeable, single customers will be placed into a group, with no surcharge.

Depending on the group and activity, restrictions will apply in regard to age, level of fitness, and standard of health that is required. These restrictions will apply in the instance of safety and general enjoyment of the whole group. Where possible, we will offer an alternative option to accommodate clients.

All trips have a minimum of clothing and equipment requirements that clients must adhere to. In the instance of clients being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, refusal will be automatic and no refund will be issued. We must be informed of any medical issues which could hinder your safety or the safety of the group.

Bookings

20% non refundable deposit is required to confirm any booking.

Payment in full is required 30 days prior to commencement of the adventure unless other arrangements are made.

Cancellation

In the event of bad weather an alternative adventure will be offered that is safe.

We have the right to cancel an adventure should we consider the weather to cause too high a risk.

Cancellation of an adventure by the customer - If possible, we will organise for you to join another party on a similar trip. If this is undesirable, the confirmation fee is forfeited. If you cancel with 30 days notice then a full refund will be made. No refund will be made on cancellations within 30 days of the start of the adventure.

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