A group from the Downhill Ski Club headed out on the bus. Around 8 am we started the walk.
The first challenge was the climb to South Crater. About 300 vertical metres.
A gentle walk across South Crater then another climb. This was taken from the climb.
I was happy to be near the highest point. Ngauruhoe is behind me.
At the top was Red Crater. There was steam in places coming from the ground. The ground was hot to touch. Fantastic red cliffs.
Then a steep descent to the Emerald Lakes. Here we had lunch.
The second half of the walk started across Central Crater. Then up past Blue Lake. All downhill from there for 600 vertical metres. The walk took me 7 hours.
Link to site with a good map.
Link to DoC page on the crossing.