Tongariro Alpine Crossing Photo: Supplied / Department of Conservation
Trampers are encouraged to use a new, free booking system for the upcoming Tongariro Alpine Crossing season.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) said visitor numbers were putting consistent pressure on the conservation, infrastructure and cultural values of the area.
Heritage and Visitors director Catherine Wilson said DOC would be making changes in the coming years to better manage these pressures and ensure the crossing was safe and sustainable.
"By proactively managing the challenges facing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealanders will help protect Tongariro for future generations," she said.
"Bookings from the season will inform the management of the Crossing and visitor information and feedback will help us shape future improvements."
The system was live for bookings from 14 October onwards but bookings were not compulsory.
Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro spokesperson Te Ngaehe Wanikau said the wellbeing of the maunga and its environment were paramount.
"Everything else fits into that," Wanikau said.
"Our enduring advocacy is that rangatiratanga, manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga and the associate tikanga of Manaaki Tangata Manaaki Whenua will be reflected in the physical application in management and operations.
"Any action or activity within the area will be based firmly in these values."