Rogue tourists are being warned to heed local advice about weather conditions on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
The umbrella group of official guides who work on the famous day walk says efforts to keep visitors safe are being undermined by a small number of individuals who ignore expert advice and put their lives at risk.
``We are very pleased with the contribution the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport and Guide concessionaires group [Tactag] is making to alpine safety,'' its chairman, Stewart Barclay, said.
``However, some visitors are not heeding the advice of our members and other experts and are attempting the crossing when the weather is unsuitable and without appropriate clothing and equipment. The crossing can be an extreme environment in winter with snow, ice and rapidly changing weather conditions.''
The Police Commander for the Ruapehu area, Inspector Steve Mastrovich, said a group of about 10 international visitors was recently advised by tourism experts in Taupo and Turangi that they weren't equipped or experienced enough to do the crossing.
However, the group had carried on anyway.
``They drove to the track by private vehicle where they ignored further warnings by two Tactag members not to proceed,'' Mr Mastrovich said.
The group had become lost and had been very lucky to be rescued without mishap.
``These visitors need to understand that Search and Rescue isn't a back-up to poor decision making and they need to listen to the advice of the people who have local knowledge.''
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is recognised as one of the best day walks in the world and a lot of work has been done by Tactag since its formation in 2007 to strengthen protocols that guide operators on weather conditions and the minimum equipment for trampers.
At Tactag's latest meeting, the Department of Conservation said that in the future it would require operators holding concessions to provide guiding and transport services for the crossing to be Tactag members and abide by its protocols.
-APNZ
