Tongariro Crossing, or officially Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often considered the most beautiful day hike in New Zealand. So, it seems wrong that after nearly 40 years in the country, I hadn’t done the walk.
We had tried going in spring before my Saudi trip but had to cancel due to bad weather. Late spring is supposed to be the most scenic time with remaining snow on the mountains and also avoids the intense summer sun.
So, yesterday, when I got a call from Uncle S (a distant relative) that he was taking the family there today, I jumped at the chance.
I left home at 0915 heading to his place in Manurewa. Normally, this would be rush-hour but with tomorrow being a public holiday, it was an easy drive. I joined them in their BMW for the ride down to Tongariro National Park.