What our customers say

''The crossing is a must do even in winter. We had the most amazing sunny day, with a beautiful view over the lakes and mountains. Terry, our guide, was the perfect guide: very nice, with a lot of useful information and great conversation. It couldn’t have been better! Thank you for this amazing day!''

Estelle

''What a fantastic day we had with Terry and Olivia of Tongariro Guided Walks. Terry was extremely knowledgeable about the surrounding area, geology and plants. We had hoped to do the entire Tongariro Crossing but the weather did not cooperate so we only made it half way there. We appreciated Terry putting safety first and taking us on a beautiful forest hike in the afternoon to round out the day. Lunch was delicious and the company superb. A 5 star experience!''

Brenda

''Yesterday my husband and I took an amazing nature walk in the Tongariro National Park with Terry, our guide. Terry is a personable, highly trained, knowledgeable, skilled professional, who takes his guiding business very seriously. He projects his love of the outdoors and is keen on educating the public about respect and preservation of the nature around us. New Zealand is an extremely beautiful country. We would have managed to have a lovely hike on our own. However, sharing the day with Terry. a proud kiwi, truly enhanced the experience all the more.''

Dianne

''The Tongariro Alpine Crossing was a superb day with our outstanding guide Sally and Terry's expertise. Seven hours of walking through a magnificent and dramatic landscape of Tongariro National park, around Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom!) and Mount Tongariro and along by the spectacular Emerald Lakes. With her skills and knowledge of the mountain we could not have made the crossing without Sal, given the inclement weather. She gave us an excellent commentary on the flora and Maori legends and was attentive and amicable.''

Hayes

''The hike was well-organized. Tracy (our guide) did an excellent job, making sure everyone was comfortable. They start a bit late to avoid the crowd (which means you're not sleep-deprived). I was staying in Taupo and the company was able to provide a pick-up service for a reasonable price.''

Alex

''Moana and I were absolutely stoked about our Tongariro crossing trip with you guys yesterday. The experience was magnified with your guidance. I was a bit nervous prior as had never walked that distance in snow and am a novice so no gear or experience. But you made me feel really comfortable with all the gear including boots. Seeing other groups up the mountain made me realise how lucky we were to have your company guiding us. Thanks Terry.''

Patrick

''I am so glad that I booked the Tongariro Guided Walks because the weather on the midway became terrible. I am not very experienced on mountain hike and not sure the gears I took were suitable for Tongariro Alpine Crossing or not. So I decided to hike with Terry`s Team.Julian and Olivia, my guides, are very nice, experienced with a lot of useful information and knowledge of this area and great conversation. Terry also offers everything I need including hiking boots, backpack, hiking poles, gloves, hat, different layer cloth. And he also prepared lunches, snacks and warm drinks. It is my first time to hike such a mountain and distance. I was a bit nervous prior and the weather was so changeable on my hiking day. At the beginning it was just raining and foggy. When almost reached the summit, we met a strong gale and rain. After discussed with Julian, I decided to return. Finally I walked 16km.''

Cynthia

''Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a must do while in New Zealand. It is a challenging hike that takes 7-9 hrs to complete but the views and the accomplished feeling are totally worth it. Our guide, Terry, was fantastic! He was very knowledgeable, prepared, and fun though hang out with for the 8-9 hours it took to make the trek. He also works as a search and rescue volunteer so we felt extremely safe throughout our entire hike. Our group was small and personal and Terry even provided us with hot chocolate! An added bonus! He Also planned our trip time perfectly to avoid the large crowds and other tour groups. He helped make this one of my favorite things we did on our trip to New Zealand. As far as fitness level required: Moderate''

Kendal

''My brother and I did the Tongariro Alpine crossing with Terry yesterday, and what an absolutely amazing experience it was. From beginning to end Terry was not only incredibly knowledgeable but passionate about everything related to the crossing, both geologically and historically. My brother and I had never done a hike like this before and while it was challenging at times (the walk to the summit left our calves feeling rather tender the following day), Terry was supportive and patient as we made our way to the summit. Amazing views, awesome photos and a truely rewarding and amazing experience! Thanks Terry.''

Stephanie

''This guide was amazing for hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing! They have supplies you can use for free with the cost of the guided hike, so even if you feel unprepared don't worry they have most things! The food provided was delicious and plenty to keep you fed on the track. This coming from a 6'3 guy 250lb guy. I walked with Sal who has hiked the trail nearly 1,000 times! She was extremely nice, very knowledgeable and let me go at my own pace. I didn't train for the hike which was 12 miles (19.4 kilometers) and it took me 8.5 hours with rests, lunch breaks and plenty of photo breaks! Cheers to Terry, the owner for giving me a heads up on weather conditions. I ended up moving my hike by a day. The day we ended up going was gorgeous! Also, shout-out to Kevin who picked us up and dropped us off. I sure was happy to see him after completing the hike! Highly recommend the guided hike, I was traveling solo so the company and information about my surroundings took the experience to the next level.''

Michael

''Terry guided our family - 2 adults and 3 children (15, 13 and 8) - along the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Terry warned us of bad weather a day before, but it was not predictable at which point it would hit the area. Terry even had a back up plan. We took a gamble and went ahead with volcano crater central walk. As we approached the Red Crater and the Emerald Lakes, on the upward climb, thunder and lighting rolled in. We had gone too far on to turn back. The focus was always on safety. It rained and even hailed at one point, my left leg seized in pain from an old injury that revived past the half-way point. All the way, Terry made sure we got to the end safely. The hike was magnificent and I'm glad we did it, and so grateful to have had Terry look after us. Well worth it!''

Priya

''Just completed this walk, and was truly amazed by it. Coming from Australia, we'd just never seen anything like it. Terry was a brilliant guide, and with a seemingly endless supply of interesting facts and information about everything we saw, along with a willingness to talk to our group about absolutely anything, made for an unforgettable experience. Terry came to visit us the night before to give us some information and drop off any required equipment (bags, boots, waterproof shells, crampons etc), giving us a chance to organise and prepare ourselves in advance which was very much appreciated. The views on the walk were breathtaking (just look on Google) with Mount Ngauruhoe towering over us and various areas of geothermal activity - one even kept us warm while we ate lunch! Overall an amazing experience that I would highly recommend to anybody - 10/10 - expectations were far exceeded and price was very reasonable.''

Max

''Just completed this walk with our guide Terry. I can highly recommend this company. Very prepared, knowledgeable, highly organised, well equipped... My boots fell apart at the start of the walk and Terry had a pair on hand! Thanks again for a great birthday day out. Cheers.''

Rebecca

''We really enjoyed the walking tour with Terry. It is our first time to do this kind of tour and Terry is very helpful. We were not able to go up to the summit because of time constraints as we need to catch the bus going back to Auckland. It is an unforgettable experience. At first, we have a second thought of doing the tour but we are really happy that we did it. The value for your money is certainly worth it. Thumbs up to TONGARIRO GUIDED WALK. We definitely recommend this tour.''

Jhene

''Me and my friend hiked tongariro alpine crossing in small group with two guide. We didn't have any hiking equipment so we booked this trip and they had all we needed. The hike was incredible and so good organized. The lunch was also really good and we didn't need to feel hungry. Just remember take water with you about 1,5 liter each. The hiking is totally worth it! We'll recommend''

Mirika

''Great experience with Terry, his wonderful support and the great team of group members! I had no hiking equipment, so Terry had everything in his van (shoes, protection, backpacks, lunch, socks, etc.). His tip to use hiking sticks was finally very helpful. The tour was awesome. We had a team of really nice people from Finland, USA, Italy and finally me as German. During the walk suddenly Terry talked German with me - what a happy surprise, because he was exchange student in Germany long time ago. Moreover Terry is very experienced in local and general history as well as geology, so we received a lot of background information along the walk. I just can highly recommend Terry's tour and the setup of his very nice guidance! Thanks again'' - Frank from Germany

Frank

On a 50/50 weather day we decided to go ahead with the hike based on the excellent advice from Terry our guide with the full expectation we might have to turn around part way. Luckily we didn’t and instead were able to complete the whole hike, despite limited views and a cold cross wind on top, though so glad we did. Terry was extremely knowledgeable about the area, the structures and New Zealand in general and it was a great conversation all the way. There are enough people we could have done it alone though having such an informative guide really helped with a totally informative experience. Will have to do it again one day in better weather

Sarah

My husband Paul and I booked with Tongariro Guided Walks, and I’m so glad we did. I highly recommend this company if you’re after a guide for this track. Terry, the owner transported us to and from our accomodation, and was such a delight to chat with. We had Olivia guide us for the day, and me being a beginner hiker and bit nervous about the whole day, she really put me at ease and I felt supported. She was equipped with all the gear, extra water electrolytes etc, and when It came to the tougher bits of the hike even carried my bag to help me through it. She was so friendly, and we had a great chat most of the hike which helped keep me motivated. Thank you Terry and Olivia for such a fantastic experience!

Caroline

We are both novice hikers and so glad we had the expertise of Julian during the hike. It is definitely a challenging hike and there parts particularly at the top where it would have been scary to be alone. Having Julian made us feel much more safe and secure. We communicated with Terry in advance and he was great. They supplied us wirh hiking boots and socks and the meals and snacks were great. Would recommend bringing extra water and trail mix as it’s a challenging day. It was an awesome experience, with beautiful views! Definitely do the Crossing but if you are nervous use this guide company as they are professional, knowledgeable and great.

So glad we hired Tongariro Guided walks to guide us during the Tongariro crossing. The owner, Terry Blumhardt, took my husband and me for this 12 mile experience. The scenery was awesome and Terry added so much to our hike by supplying endless information about the area and all of New Zealand. The terrain was challenging at times but I felt confident that we had an experienced guide and we would make it across the finish line!

Mary

My husband and I are really impressed with Tongariro Guided Walks as a company. Our guide provided all necessary gear that we did not bring with us to the hike along with a lunch, plenty of snacks, and hot drinks. Our guide, Julian, was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. He pretty much could answer any question we had regarding New Zealand culture and landscape. The hike itself is truly amazing, and we were very lucky to have beautiful weather throughout the duration of the hike. I would highly this company if you are wanting to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track.

Morgan

We were unable to hike the Tongariro crossing due to the weather conditions but Terry and Julian were able to recommend an alternative hike to the summit of Mount Urchin. The walk was fantastic, the first part was through the bush and then to a clearing which took you to the summit. The views at the top were fantastic and you could see the snow covered peaks in the Tongariro National Park. A special mention for our guide Julian who was amazing, so knowledgeable and personable - it was a pleasure to be in his company and he taught us so much about the area, the plants and the animals. Snacks were included, hot chocolate and coffee at the summit as well as additional kit to keep you warm if the weather turned (gloves which were much appreciated ). Would highly recommend!

Luke

No trip to New Zealand would be complete without taking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and if you are brave enough, then Terry Blumhardt and his friends at Tongariro Guided Walks are the team to take you. I was firstly impressed by the professionalism and organisation when we booked up, he gave me huge confidence that we would be safe in his hands, I was not disappointed. Although we are fairly fit (and nearly 60), taking on the crossing in snow was always going to be a challenge and we achieved it because Terry (and his colleague) was hugely supportive and encouraging. Thanks Terry, really felt we achieved something with your help and support.

Jonathan

My 12yo daughter and I walked the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with Terry yesterday (July 2019) and what a day we had! We were so lucky as weather conditions were near perfect but what made the day even better was having Terry as a guide. Great guy, passionate of anything outdoors, so knowledgeable and awesome company. If you’re looking for a guide to walk the Crossing either in summer or winter, look no further than Tongariro Guided Walks. Very highly recommended! Thanks Terry for this awesome day.

Fred

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We trekked half of the Tongariro pass with a wonderful guide called Olivia. I cannot fault her skill and professionalism enough, and to cap it all she was considerate and friendly too! We were so lucky to be guided by her, and really enjoyed our day. The pass it’s is stunningly beautiful and not too much of a challenge for an averagely fit 6o+ year old to do. It’s an experience we’ll never forget. Thank you Olivia, you were superb!

Joan

My guide Olivia is such a professional guide and a lovely person to know. I was amazed to see her show up carrying a 20 kg backpack when she went on the hike with me. She has everything you need or don’t need— a shelter, first aid kit, even toilet paper! She is so knowledgeable too! She introduced to me the history, geology and the animals and plants along the way. She has boundless energy and lovely personality. She is very strict when it comes to safety issues and at the same time she is very accommodating to my preference. Hiring her is one of my best decisions made during my New Zealand trip.

Evelyn

19.4km Tongariro Alpine crossing was an amazing day out. Our guides Olivia and Cam made our trip extra special. The walk demands a certain fitness level but the rewards are views to die for. Highly recommend this company for a great day out, informal, professional, passionate and fun. thanks

Dallas

I was travelling alone so was very pleased to be able to join a group of people to walk the Tongariro crossing. Our guides Olivia & Cam, were friendly and professional. They gave us loads of info throughout the day and advised us about what to expect from the walk, even down to when it would be a good idea to put on an extra layer of clothing. I struggled with the steepest part of the walk, but Olivia stayed with me and encouraged me to continue (though only if I felt up to it, and even offering to carry my pack!) and I'm so pleased I did. Once I got past the most difficult section, I was fine and thoroughly enjoyed the day. The weather was cold but sunny, and the views were spectacular. Although most people do this walk independently, taking into account the transport to & from the crossing, lunch & the guiding, I think this represents a really great value tour and would highly recommend it. Thanks to Terry & his team.

Janet

Really lovely day out with the perfect weather! Cam and Olivia made sure we were looked after the whole time and really supported us through the more difficult bits. Thanks so much for such an enjoyable day out hiking! Would definitely recommend to others!!

Hannah

We had a day booked with Terry , to walk to Lake Tama . Terry is a brilliant guide , top of his game , extremely experienced , very knowledgable and would make anyone of any ability at ease and very safe . We headed out and weather forecast was against us but we had the best time , learning so much of the landscape, geography, culture and history as we completed a superb hike . As the rain had set in we changed the plan slightly and added on a separate circular lower lake and forest walk which was such a bonus . Terry was brilliant company for the day and has made us want to return to explore more of the area If you are looking for any guided walk days in the Tongariro area I would highly recommend this company

Lucy

Myself and my buddy Orla decided to hike the Tongariro Crossing and having looked at reviews online it was obvious Terry was the man to contact. Terry ensured that my buddy had the correct gear for a safe hike and supplied boots, socks, rucksack and confirmed that he would supply lunch, snacks and water for the following day. On the morning of the hike we were collected at our accommodation by Kevin, Gary and our guide Cam. These boys were brilliant from the very start. On our drive to the start of the walk Gary shared his indepth knowledge of the area. Kevin made sure we had all the gear we needed before we headed off. My buddy was not used to hiking and Cam was extremely patient and kind to her, never putting her under pressure. Cam showed us the easiest path to take and adjusted the lunch stop to make sure it was the most enjoyable possible. The lunch was amazing and Cam made us coffee/tea/hot chocolate on site. Cam was extremely aware of his surroundings picking up litter without adjusting his stride and moving children in from the edge without any drama. We had great chats and this guy was the best craic!! He shared endless information on the area and identified the best spots for photo opportunities. The 19+ km flew by with non stop chats and laughs. I cant recommend this group of people enough. They are excellent!

Aine

We did the Tongariro Alpine Crossing 15th Jan this year. A bit disappointedd at first not to have terry as our guide as I had been emailing him .However our guide Olivia was AMAZING, very friendly and approachable ,very knowledgeable about the geography and history of the area and always concerned for the welfare of our little group especially my wife and myself being seniors!!!!We felt we were in really good hands with olivia. My wife struggled abit on the Devils Staircase so I took her heavy rucksack off her but when olivia saw this she insisted on taking the rucksack from me and carrying it herself despite already having her own heavy backpack to carry. Olivia was prepared for everything including loo roll and hand sanitiser for the "toilets". Lunch and lots of fab snacks were provided and olivia even had a flask of hot water to make us tea/coffee at lunchtime which was just what we needed. We were picked up from our B&B in Turangi and dropped off there afterwards. We were given stronger backpacks as olivia said ours were too flimsy and also provided us with poles. We had our own boots but everything was there if you needed anything. TGW are a great company ,very well organised and want everybody to enjoy the day but safety is always their first priority.We would thoroughly recommend them well worth the money.

Keith