Tongarino Alpine crossing

Early morning wake up to catch the 6 am shuttle to the start of the hike. Quite cool out, especially with wind. Arrive at the trailhead with many other hikers and head up and into the fierce wind. Sun tries to come out but we climb into a cloud. Difficult to see much of anything. Pretty brutal conditions but press on. Make it to Red Crater - the top - and quickly slide down the scree with hordes of others. Nice views of alpine lakes. As we descend it gets clearer and less windy. Nice, warm lunch spot looking out to Taupo lake. Hike through forest to the trail end (19 km later) and hop on our shuttle. Relax in the sunshine for the rest of the day.Les mer