Tongariro Crossing Fire Updates: What Hikers Need to Know

1. Is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Open?

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.

2. Mangatepopo Road and Car Park Status

Mangatepopo Road is currently closed to private vehicles.

Because of fire damage to roadside areas and infrastructure, and ongoing safety assessments:

• The public cannot drive into Mangatepopo Road
  
• The Mangatepopo Car Park is unsafe and closed to use
  
• Access is restricted to authorised shuttle operators only

Private cars will not be permitted until DOC approves the road for safe public use.

This means that parking at the start of the Tongariro Crossing is not available.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. When Will Mangatepopo Road Reopen?

There is no confirmed reopening date.
The road will reopen only once:

• Safety inspections are complete
  
• Fire crews confirm all hotspots are out
  
• DOC repairs damaged areas
  
• The zone is cleared for public access

We will update this page immediately when new information is available.

10. Alternative Short Walks While Mangatepopo Is Closed

If you planned a shorter walk such as Soda Springs return, alternatives include:

• Tawhai Falls Track
  
• Whakapapa Nature Walk
  
• Tama Lakes Track from Whakapapa Village
  
• Taranaki Falls Track
  
• Rotopounamu Track
  
• Lake Rotoaira Loop

These remain open and unaffected.

11. Live Updates Log

• 9 November 2025:  A ten year rahui is announced for fire damaged areas.
• 11 November 2025: A one week rahui is placed on the crossing
• 19 November 2025: The crossing officially re-opens

12. How did the fire start?

The exact cause of the fire has not been confirmed, but arson has been ruled out.

13. Summary for Hikers

• The Tongariro Crossing is open
  
• Mangatepopo Road is closed to private vehicles
  
• Mangatepopo Car Park is unavailable
  
• Shuttles continue to operate
  
• Ketetahi Car Park remains the recommended parking option
  
• The main track is unaffected by fire damage
  
• Minor transport adjustments are required