Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Tongariro Crossing safety message

Updated at 9:09 am on 25 June 2012

The Department of Conservation and industry groups are trying new ways to get the safety message across to those who tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

The majority of people who do the trek go without a guide.

In April, sixteen trampers attempting the 19km route had to be rescued after they got into trouble in bad weather.

Last year 13 people were rescued, which was less than 1% of those who did the trek.

DoC says the shoulder seasons - late autumn or early spring - are of particular safety concern.

Last month all operators were asked to join the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport and Guide group, in the interest of safety.

As well as signs at the start of the track and websites with safety information, DoC says trampers are being encouraged to register their walking intentions via the Internet.

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