Source: NZ Department of Conservation
Date: 04 September 2026
Progress has been made in repairing structural damage on Mangatepopo Track, which was impacted by fires in late 2025, and the track is on course for a summer reopening.
Department of Conservation Principal Ranger Jenny Hayward says being able to open Mangatepopo Track in mid-December means visitors can complete a full circuit this season.
“Mangatepopo Track is a critical link between Whakapapa Village and Mangatepopo Hut, and without it the Tongariro Northern Circuit hasn’t been a circuit.”
Although progress has been made at the track, poor weather has prevented contractors flying materials in to Oturere, delaying construction on the much-anticipated new hut. The hut and the campsite will now open for bookings from 18 December 2026. Visitors with affected bookings will be emailed directly next week by DOC and given the opportunity to change their booking or receive a full refund.
“We appreciate this is disappointing for those who had booked to stay in the brand-new hut, but unfortunately it has been unavoidable this time.
“On the bright side, when you do book the hut, you’ll now be able to include it as part of the full Great Walk circuit.”
The Tongariro Northern Circuit is a three or four-day hike through varied volcanic landscapes including parts of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Jenny says there’s also good news for the future of Mangatepopo Track.
“At this stage we’re just working on replacing and repairing the fire-impacted structures, but we now have approval to do a complete overhaul of the track.
“It’s going to be a complete refresh, with metalling resurfacing, new boardwalks, and a strong focus on futureproofing.”
“People who’ve walked the Mangatepopo Track in recent years will know it has not been in a condition we’d expect for a Great Walk. We’re really looking forward to bringing it up to standard and getting even more people out naturing in Tongariro.”
Bookings for Great Walks can be made through the DOC website.
Contact
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/04/loop-linked-again-as-work-continues-on-tongariro-northern-circuit/