Tongariro Crossing a life changing experiance?

The NZ Discovery web site says that Writers of the Lonely Planet recommend the crossing as one of New Zealand's life-changing experiences.
I am not going to disagree or argue the fact whether it is life changing or not. It has to be said though it is one of the most popular walks in NZ and perhaps the world. I know this to be true because when I set out along the path, what I saw was almost an international pilgrimage of hundreds of people from all over the world following this rugged yet enchanting trek. If you enjoy the outdoors socialising with others and are learning a foreign language the Tongariro Crossing is the place for you.

We were met with an amazing view of the clouds and steam raising up through the adjacent valley after exerting ourselves climbing the Devils Stair case. It is obvious why the arduous climb is called what it is but looking at the above picture it could also be called the stairway to heaven.   

There is something I feel impelled to share with you. Be warned though if you have traversed this crossing you may find what I am about to say disturbing.
The Tongariro Crossing is not even half as good as the complete Tongariro Northern Circuit. In the context of this great heritage park it is only the beginning.
If you like thousands upon thousands of other people have done the Crossing but have missed out on the wholeness and splendour of this majestic landscape. If you have not seen the morning sun cast its light upon the eastern face of Mt Ngarahoe in your quest to circumnavigate this volcano all the while marvelling at the tranquillity of it all. If you have not dear reader done any of this do not fear. Acknowledge that yes you have missed out, but take heart this National Park still awaits you, it is not to late. Why not get some friends together or one of the few people who have not traversed the crossing and guide them through it then at the emerald lakes as hundreds of others go forward to complete the crossing, turn right onto a path less travelled and explore together the rest of this mysterious and ever changing landscape. You will not regret that you did. If the Tongariro Crossing is life changing experience  the Northern Circuit is even more than that.

Very happy for having made the effort to get up very early, we had no idea of the things we would discover that day.
I saw things that morning I have never seen since. Spectacular

Ngarahoe basking in the soft light of dawn.

My friends footprints in the foreground heading torward Mt Reapahu in the distance also basking beneath the light of dawn.

You need to be prepared. Be fit. Have the right food and have the right clothing.
Here I demonstrate how a scarf can be practical and be a fashion statement.

  

Follow the markers. If you are planning  to go off track have and study the topo map

This is the view you can enjoy in Mangitapopo hut.
But please note as I sure learnt, some people can snore incredibly loud!!! Take ear plugs.

For key information on planning and safety see the  Department of Conservation website