Tramping is a must do while in Kiwi land. Alpine treks are one of my favourites. Tongariro alpine crossing is a very scenic trek in dramatic landscapes covering a 19.4 kms. However, we couldn’t complete the trek as the last section was closed due to volcanic activity and we had to turn back from blue lake.

Our night stay was at Discovery lodge right in the middle of the national park. The lodge is the closest accommodation to the trail head and the drive to the lodge itself was an adventure. Our GPS had stopped working and we just kept driving on our instincts to reach the place. 

The alarm is set for 4.30 am and a silent prayer is made “Please please I need blue sky and no clouds tomorrow on the trek – Universe are you listening?”

After getting dressed in layers and picking our packed breakfast from the reception, we drive to the Mangatepopo car park – the starting point for the trek.

Early morning light while trekking

The trek is divided into

• Mangatepopo car park – soda springs
• Soda springs – South crater
• South crater – Red crater
• Red crater – blue lake

Mangatepopo car park – Soda springs: This is a gentle walk of about 1.5 hour. Here we came across the sign ↓

Soda springs – South crater: Known as Devil’s staircase. Very steep climb. Beautiful views of Mount Ngauruhoe

South crater – Red crater: This is a nice gentle walk on flat plain but beware its the calm before the storm. A steep climb awaits you once again just around the corner nevertheless with rewarding views 🙂

Spot me walking on Mars !

Mt Ngauruhoe and clear blue sky .. Yay !!!

Walking over ancient lava flows….surreal !

And we keep climbing….The first sight of Emerald lakes.

Red crater – blue lake: This is descent on loose scoria and then a walk across flat plain.

Blue lake in the distance

We reach the Blue lake and find the sign to turn back 🙁

Blue lake

What we missed: Blue lake – Ketahahi hut – Ketatahi car park

Feeling a little dejected, we start our walk back to car park.

Enjoying the vegetation on the way back

Walking back to Mangatepopo car park

Tips to prepare for Tongariro Hike:

Start early to avoid crowd. It will even help you get a good parking spot.

Stay only at Discovery lodge. You will be just 10 min away from trail head.

Carry plenty of water as there is no drinking water source on the trail.

Weather changes suddenly so wear many layers.

What I liked: There are rangers at every milestone. The track is impeccably maintained.

Happy Tramping!