Your day begins with our shuttle & transfer services where you are picked up from your location of accommodation dependent on which departure time you choose. To compliment your already research of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing awareness and preparedness before coming with us the locals, we’ll also share our knowledge, culture and stories. All this information whilst you are driven to the heart of the Tongariro National Park, Aotearoa New Zealand’s known best one-day hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. On transfer to the beginning of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track at Mangatepopo Road which will take around 45-60 minutes. You're journey naturally experiences our ‘Maōri blessings’ where everyone gathers together. A speech in Maōri is given with acknowledgements and respect which is then explained in English approximately 5-minutes in total. After the korero speech in Maōri, and English, there will then be a team photo, first one for safety, second one for fun! This photo is available free from the social media pages and website. You can use the walking poles for free as you self-guide hike. Very useful when descending down from off the mountain or just to help to take that little extra pressure off your legs. Various sizes therefore check them out on drop off point. You will be picked up at the end of your hike in the afternoon to your booking time from the trail end platform of Ketetahi. You will be greeted with a free celebratory cold drink - your life saver! IMPORTANT SAFETY FIRST INFORMATION - Know before you go New Zealand’s weather is unpredictable. Always check forecasts and expect four seasons in a day. We work closely with New Zealand’s Department of Conservation Weather Forecasts & Mountain Safety Council to encourage you and follow their adventure outdoor safety code. • Wear good quality hiking boots • Layer your clothes - avoid cotton - thermal and fleeces are a good choice as they stay warm when wet • Water and windproof outerwear is essential • Take a warm hat and gloves even when it's hot - you don’t want to be caught out by the weather • Good to have spare toilet paper and hand sanitizer as not provided at the non-composting toilets along the Tongariro trail. • Wear and pack high factor sun protection • Your food and water intake will be higher - pack plenty of water to avoid dehydration and extra food with a high energy value • During daylight savings hours, make sure you pack a torch in case you return later than expected • Respect people, respect the land, and respect our environment, for preservation. Please Pack in what you Pack out