Mangatepopo Car Park

If you’re planning to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is where to park.

Many people assume the Mangatepopo Car Park is the logical place to park your car since it’s at the start of the track, but that’s incorrect.

Simply put you CAN’T park at Mangatepopo if you are hiking the Tongariro Crossing – here’s why:

Quick Facts: Limited Parking & 4 Hour Restriction

You cannot park here for a full-day hike of the Crossing.
It’s only suitable if you plan to walk a small part of the track and return to your car within four hours (see below)

Where exactly is the Mangatepopo Car Park?

The Mangatepopo Car Park sits at the Mangatepopo Road end, right at the beginning of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

It’s the gateway to the first 4 km of the track, passing through the Mangatepopo Valley towards Soda Springs and eventually climbing the Devil’s Staircase.

Why Mangatepopo Isn’t Practical for the full 20.2 km

Organise a shuttle from Ketetahi back to Mangatepopo after finishing which adds cost and time.
Risk fines or towing if you overstay the 4-hour limit.
Battle for limited spaces, as the car park fills up early on busy summer mornings.

Best Car Park for the Tongariro Crossing: Ketetahi

No time limit – you can park for the full day without worrying.
Security – the car park has staff on-site until 5 pm and 24/7 CCTV monitoring.
One-way shuttles included – book a spot and you’ll get a shuttle from Ketetahi to Mangatepopo at the start of the day.
Stress-free finish – after your hike, your car is just a short 10-minute walk from the end of the track.
Full details on the Ketetahi car park and shuttle service are here.

Perfect for a Shorter Walk: Soda Springs Return

So, while the Mangatepopo Car Park isn’t practical for the full crossing, it’s a good choice if you’re planning a shorter return walk. From the car park, it’s around 1.5 hours (each way) to reach Soda Springs, making this a great option for those who want to sample part of the track without committing to the full 20.2 km.

This section follows the Mangatepopo Valley across boardwalks and gentle terrain, with stunning views of Mt Ngauruhoe rising above. It’s suitable for families, casual walkers, or anyone short on time who still wants to experience a taste of the Crossing.

Although the Soda Springs walk is far less popular than the full hike, it has its own rewards: alpine scenery, volcanic landscapes, and a peaceful turnaround point at the base of the Devil’s Staircase. Parking at Mangatepōpō works perfectly here, since the 4-hour time should give you enough time to complete the return trip without stress.

Quick Tips

Don’t risk overstaying the 4-hour limit at Mangatepopo, DOC patrols this regularly.
Book your Ketetahi Car Park & shuttle early during peak season; spaces fill quickly.
Always plan your transport before the day to avoid last-minute stress.

Final Thoughts

The Mangatepopo Car Park may seem like the obvious place to start, but for anyone hiking the full Tongariro Alpine Crossing, it’s an absolute ‘no go’

With time limits, limited spaces, and end-of-day logistics to consider, the smarter option is booking the private Ketetahi Car Park with a morning shuttle.

It simplifies your day, keeps your car secure, and lets you focus on enjoying one of New Zealand’s most iconic hikes.