Tongariro Crossing Fire Updates: What Hikers Need to Know
Last updated: 05 January 2026
This page provides clear, up to date information about how the recent wildfire in Tongariro National Park affects access to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. We focus on the practical details hikers need: car park access, shuttle operations, track conditions, closures, and what to expect over the coming weeks.
This page explains what those updates mean for people planning to hike the Crossing.
Is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Open?
With respect to the fire, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is currently open, but with changes to access and logistics due to fire damage in the Mangatepopo area.
The track itself was not heavily damaged, but road access to the start point was affected, and repairs are underway.
Hikers can still complete the full 20.2 km track, but must follow the updated transport guidelines below.
Please note that on any given day, poor weather may also close the crossing – DOC decides if the weather is bad enough to be considered dangerous.
On days like this your shuttle operator will contact you to let you know the options.
Mangatepopo Road and Car Park Status
Mangatepopo car park has re-opened opened to private vehicles, after being closed for a period de to the fire
However, it is still not suitable for hikers as there is a strict 4 hour time limit.
As always, the private, secure Ketetahi car park is the best place to park.
How Do I Start the Crossing Now?
All hikers must now use car park and shuttle drop off services to reach the Mangatepopo end of the track.
Shuttle operators have clearance to enter Mangatepopo Road under controlled safety conditions. Pick ups and drop offs continue, but may run at reduced frequency depending on assessments.
If you are planning to hike the Crossing, you must book transport in advance.
Ketetahi Car Park Status
The Ketetahi Car Park remains fully open and fully operational.
It continues to offer:
- Secure all day parking
- Staff on site until 5 pm
- 24 hour CCTV monitoring
- Included one way shuttle to the Mangatepopo start
- A simple 10 minute walk from the track end to your vehicle
With Mangatepopo Road closed, Ketetahi Car Park is the recommended option for all hikers.
How the Fire Affects Shuttles
Shuttles continue to operate, with the following adjustments:
- Only authorised shuttles may enter Mangatepopo Road
- Shuttle operators may adjust pick up times depending on safety checks
- Capacity may be limited during peak periods due to controlled access
If you already have shuttle bookings, check for updates the day before your hike.
Were Any Sections of the Crossing Damaged?
The fire primarily affected vegetation and infrastructure around the Mangatepopo Road corridor. The main track for hikers did not experience major structural damage.
Areas of note:
- Mangatepopo Valley: Some vegetation burn, but the track remains intact
- Mangatepopo Car Park: Fire damage in surrounding areas, safety inspections ongoing
- The alpine section (South Crater, Red Crater, Blue Lake): Unaffected
- Ketetahi area: No impact
Hikers can safely complete the full route. Click here to see a map of the damaged areas.
Should I Still Do the Tongariro Crossing?
Yes!
The track remains open and safe, and the overall experience is unchanged.
The main differences right now are:
- You must use shuttles to reach the start
- You cannot park at the Mangatepopo end
- Some visual fire damage may be visible in the valley
The alpine craters, lakes, and volcanic scenery are all unaffected.
Will the Closure Impact My Finish Time?
No. The end of the track at Ketetahi operates normally.
Shuttle times in the morning may be slightly adjusted.
Plan for:
- A slightly earlier start
- A slightly longer morning wait
Your finish time and hiking experience remain the same.
ALTERNATIVE SHORT WALKS WHILE MANGEREPOPO IS CLOSED
If you planned a shorter walk (like Soda Springs return), alternatives include:
Tawhai Falls Track
Whakapapa Nature Walk
Tama Lakes Track (access from Whakapapa Village)
Taranaki Falls Track
Rotopounamu Track
Lake Rotoaira Loop (outside the park)
These remain open and unaffected.
HOW DID THE TONGARIRO FIRE START?
At this stage the cause of the fire remains unknown, though arson has been ruled out.
There are rumours that a spark from a vehicle caused the fire, but authorities have not confirmed this.
