How We Keep You Safe After Your Tongariro Crossing Adventure
Finishing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be tiring and weather can change quickly.
To add an extra layer of care at the end of your day, our team runs a simple, proven safety check before sunset to confirm that everyone has made it back to their vehicle.
Our End-of-Day Safety Check
- Identify vehicles: We note the registration plates of any cars still in the car park before sunset.
- Match to booking: Plates are cross-referenced with our daily manifest to identify the booking holder.
- Send a text: We SMS the listed mobile number to check you (and your group, if any) are safe.
- Follow up by phone: If there’s no reply within 15 minutes, we call the same number.
- Escalate if needed: If we still can’t reach you, we contact a local Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) team member who will also liaise with Police to attempt contact.
- Search decision: If there’s still no response, LandSAR will determine whether to deploy a search.
Why This Matters
The Tongariro can be unpredictable. Fatigue, minor injuries, poor visibility, or slower progress are all common. This process helps close the loop—giving you and your whānau confidence that someone is looking out for your safe return.
Help Us Help You
- Ensure your mobile number and vehicle registration are correct on your booking.
- Keep your phone on (and charged) after the hike so we can reach you if needed.
- If you leave early with another vehicle or change plans, call us on (027) 232-0238 or email bookings@tongarirocrossing.com to update your status.
Privacy
Your contact details are used solely to confirm your wellbeing and to coordinate with LandSAR/Police if required. They are not shared for any other purpose!
Stay safe at Ketetahi Car Park & Shuttle
