35 minutes
Mobile ticket
National Park Shuttles is the sole Manawhenua operator based in Waimarino, providing reliable transport services from the only secure parking facility conveniently located on State Highway 46 at the Ketetahi track road end. We offer a stress-free experience by allowing you to park safely before embarking on your journey.
We transfer you from the private car park to the beginning of the trek (Mangatepopo). You can hike as fast or as slowly as you like.
No waiting hours for a shuttle at the finish if you're fast. No running for your shuttle if you're slow. At the end of the trek, you will arrive at the 4-hour Ketetahi car park. You will walk another 900 meters from there, back to where your car is parked.
Rest assured that no one is ever left behind!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
For all ages 8+
We do not transport children under the age of 8
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Please meet us at The only one-way PRIVATE car park across from the Ketetahi Track entrance. Pick-up is in the ONLY secure off-road car park located opposite the end of the hike at Ketetahi on Highway 46. Please tell us your pick-up time, 7 am, or 8 am. You must arrive at least 15 minutes early, so you don't miss the shuttle. Times are subject to change due to availability. If travelling from Taupo Turangi make sure to take HWY 1 and turn onto HWY46 (National Park). It will take 20 minutes approximately to get to the car park. The actual sign is on the left side of the road and says 'TONGARIRO SHUTTLE CAR PARK'. If travelling from National Park Village take HWY 47, travel that road for approximately 25 to 30 minutes then turn right onto HWY 46 (Rangipo). It will take 10 minutes approximately to get to the car park from there. It's 400 meters from the Ketetahi track entrance (don't go down that road). The car park staff will be inside the car park to check you in. Show your confirmation.
Car Park Security staff on site
Hassel FREE all-day park
Safety debriefing
Informative friendly with Cultural Insite on arrival
Pickup included
69 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
913rudolfh,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
You walk around the lake about 80 to 90 minutes and pay 4 euros. Last year it was 2 euros. Certainly not again, just rip it off. Incidentally, there are many nice opportunities for walking here since you don't need the Unterbacher See
U3810WKmarkusm,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Alles top! Immer wieder gerne.
Danielle C,Mar 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
Epic experience. Shuttles were well organised and on time. Crazy Tracey was the best driver. Very funny and lots of great info. The whole experience was amazing! Bucket list item for sure.
Getaway660136,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
All went as planned, meet at the car park and good local knowledge from our driver..
Urlaubistimmerzukurz,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
To make the Alpine Crossing carefree, the round trip transport is more than recommended. Pick up at the start and finish. Were promptly the driver friendly the bus came of age, but completely fulfilled its purpose.

profi-ch,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Top service - we camped at the Whakapapa Holiday Park and booked the shuttle service there and back, just from the campsite. Super comfortable, so you can leave the camper standing. It all worked out great 😍.
374suem374,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We arrived early and the driver left promptly when the van filled, so we were able to get on the track a bit earlier than expected. It is more than .5 miles down a dusty road to the car park when you are done this amazing walk. It would be nice if there was a pedestrian walk off the road, or transport back to the lot.
keelint2026,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
The best shuttle for the Tongariro crossing. Amazing staff and our driver was lovely and shared lots of knowledge about the area. Highly recommended!
MadeleineL523,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was a beautiful clear morning before the start of the hike. Initially went to the wrong carpark location but staff were very helpful in giving directions. Very friendly driver, great service to help out with parking




robtB5530VM,Feb 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
A very friendly and helpful operator. I would highly recommend using them, they are very knowledgeable about the volcanoes and area. They also helped me at the end with an event I had in the last 1km of the track. Amazing people.
Operated by National Park Shuttles