It’s the variety you find on the way on Mt Taranaki walks – not all straight and undulating tracks, but gentle curves and well built bridges where you can pause for those precious moments of utter peace and its freely there for ordinary people like me… and this bloke: Sometimes you find fantastic service in the most unexpected places. Hiking the Mount Taranaki Summit Track. Snow in the crater on Mt Taranaki. An adventure for my birthday, and a great day to be climbing such a historic volcano. This walk crosses some paddocks and then is in native lowland, coastal forest until you reach the summit. Your email address will not be published. Hiking is free, gets you in touch with nature and the outdoors, and of course is an excellent workout! Note that the times for these best Taranaki walks are all based on my estimates and vary depending on your walking speed. Taranaki, a stratovolcano. The trail is signposted and you can find it easily. On the Mt Taranaki walks, you’re literally surrounded by thick canopies of ferns and the lushest growth you’ll find anywhere in New Zealand. Now I know why we had to book at the Mountain House café. Four of these best Taranaki walks take you up these mountains. . The best way to see all of the beauty in and around Mount Taranaki is to hike. Egmont National Park is a fantastic, beautiful area centered around the towering volcano called Mt. I am a pretty fast, but not super fast walker. The 5 Best Taranaki Walks. Situated in the heart of Stratford, the Carrington Walkway encompasses bush, gardens and urban areas, all the while capturing the view of the mighty Mt Taranaki not too far in the distance. We’ll cover exactly what hikes in the Egmont National Park to do in this article. Egmont National Park in the Taranaki region of the North Island.. Description. The Lake Circuit walk starts from either the car park partway down Lake Access Road off State Highway 3 or from the car park at the end of the Lake Access Road. Return to the trailhead the same way you came. But we have noticed a trend away from the usual beaten tracks which is heartening. Before moving to New Zealand all I could think about were the walks in the mountains of the South Island. Taranaki Tramping, Hiking, Bush & Guided Walks are breath-taking, invigorating and liberating in the extreme with hikes up to the crater of Mt Taranaki and elsewhere. Location – End of Mangorei Road to access Mt. Taranaki, a stratovolcano. Yesterday, it couldn’t have been a better time to visit Mt Taranaki. Dated: June 24, 2019. It should only be attempted in good weather by fit and experienced trampers with proper equipment. Be guided over a variety of walks in Taranaki. Up Next. Watch later. The walk up passes through the goblin forest. Highlights of this walk include native forest, birds, and some great views. Learn More. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window). This is a super sweet walk that follows along cliffs, across farmers paddocks, through some native bush, and then along the beach back to the start. This falls has perhaps the most water all year round and is the headwaters of the Stony River. Tap to unmute. Then follow the trail to the clifftops and try to continue along the cliffs back to your starting point. The Legend of Mount Taranaki. Dropped them off in Stratford then travelled to the beautiful Dawson Falls. Getting there. Taranaki has several dog-friendly areas of bush which are ideal for taking your dog through on and off lead. If you’re only completing one tramp in Taranaki this is the one to do. Via the summit track. Start at the new, big carpark at the end of Mangorei road. Tourism NZ even gave a wink and a nod to the Len Lye Centre. Often described as ‘New Zealand’s most climbed mountain’, Mt Taranaki provides non-mountaineers with an achievable summit challenge. The lake is popular for boating, swimming and water skiing The native bushland around Mt Taranaki is so dense and moist it literally embraces you – folks, believe me, this is an enchanted other-world. One of the most challenging tracks in the Egmont National Park, the summit route takes you high above the clouds for a truly breath-taking view. Please contact us for further information. Waingongoro Hut tracks Waingongoro Hut is a good overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers - walk through goblin forest, stop for a swim in lava-formed pools, and cross the highest swing bridge in Egmont National Park. Egmont National Park can be found on the western coast of New Zealand's North Island. PO BOX 3449 | RICHMOND, 7050 | NEW ZEALAND, New Zealand South Island Itinerary 10 Days, 12 Days New Zealand South Island Itinerary, View some Depart of Conservation information. Situated in the heart of Stratford, the Carrington Walkway encompasses bush, gardens and urban areas, all the while capturing the view of the mighty Mt Taranaki not too far in the distance. Mount Taranaki, New Zealand. It’s an untouched world you’ll remember it for the rest of your days. Ha, I’ve learned my lesson from previous Alpine walks – you really do need to dress for the conditions. Mt Taranaki. Note that the times for these best Taranaki walks are all based on my estimates and vary depending on your walking speed. The area has heaps of day or multi-day walks. WALKWAYS. The region of Taranaki surrounds the foot of Mount Taranaki, a dormant volcano that peeks above the clouds. Often described as ‘New Zealand’s most climbed mountain’, Mt Taranaki provides non-mountaineers with an achievable summit challenge. There is an alternate route, using the Kokowai Track, which can avoid the Boomerang Slip. Taranaki reflected in a lake that makes you start drooling because it looks so incredible. Terms & Conditions. From the tower you then head back down the puffer, into the bush again and back to your starting point. The beautiful region of Taranaki offers a huge range of opportunities for day walks – enjoy lush native forest and stunning volcanic views. The Taranaki Falls walk at Mt Ruapehu is an easy 5.3 km walk which will take you around 2 hours. Length Of Walk – About 12 km or 4 hours round trip. The heart of this area is Mt. Taranaki waterfall is a 30 minute walk from Holly Hut on the north/western side of the mountain. The central iconic mountain acts as your guide, whether you’re navigating the perimeter of Lake Rotorangi, or … This trail has stairs and a chain for part and is not for the faint of heart. Their parents would have had a blue fit. Easy access short walk: suitable for people of all abilities, wheelchairs and children’s buggies. Weather can vary greatly, so be prepared if you intend to do any of the more ambitious walks. The famous photo of Mount Taranaki (see my photo above) is taken just a short walk from the Pouakai Hut at the Pouakai Tarn. Ha, I’ve learned my lesson from previous Alpine walks – you really do need to dress for the conditions. This walk is a favorite of my kids because it combines some fun scrambling up a steep rocky gully using chains, playing on a big dune, and wandering along the beach. A wheelchair/pushchair-friendly track, Potaema is the most accessible of the lowland mires in Egmont National Park and is the perfect short walk for anyone wanting to encounter the beauty of Mount Taranaki without committing to a hike. Highlights – Pouakai tarns reflecting Mount Taranaki (on a good day), forest, and views.. The Opunake Walkway is the longest of the formal South Taranaki walks and takes you through beautiful lake and beach scenery. Home Travel Blogs New Zealand Travel Tips Mt Taranaki Walks, Stratford Mountain Cafe and Dawson Falls. Mounga Taranaki is a mauri, or life force and a spiritual tupuna or ancestor for Taranaki Māori. However, they all have one thing in common: on a clear day, Mt Taranaki can be seen from them all. 3 1/2 to 4 hours round trip – out and back. The trail tops out at Patuha trig, which has stunning views of the coast and Mt. However, they all have one thing in common: on a clear day, Mt Taranaki can be seen from them all. The Kaitake Range is another old volcanic cone that juts away from Mt. Top Taranaki Region Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in Taranaki Region, New Zealand on Tripadvisor. Discover heritage sites: Dawson Falls power station and The Camphouse. Hike under the shadow of Mount Taranaki or explore the green fertile lowlands and artistic culture of Taranaki, New Zealand. Happy travelling on Mt Taranaki walks! Mount Taranaki is New Zealand's most perfectly formed volcano. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. State Highway (-47.5k) Layers. Magical Mt Taranaki. There is a short, steep trail that goes up to the top. View some Depart of Conservation information. This Mt. Mt Taranaki is a cone-shaped 2518m high peak that offers spectacular scenery. Having worked up an appetite on Mt Taranaki walks we devoured the excellent risotto and Asian Salmon dishes and finished it off with good coffee and a very fresh piece of delicious mud cake – lovely texture. We gave a ride to a couple German hitchhikers – young girls with those cut-off shorts and jandals – sleeveless tops and no jackets! It should only be attempted in good weather by fit and experienced trampers with proper equipment. Mount Taranaki / Mount Egmont is a dormant stratovolcano in the Taranaki region on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. Here the volcano Taranaki (or Mt Egmont as it is also known) rules supreme. Egmont National Park, in the Taranaki region, is a magnet for hikers. The walks in South Taranaki are as variable as the landscape. The central iconic mountain acts as your guide, whether you’re navigating the perimeter of Lake Rotorangi, or on top of some coastal cliffs in Opunake. Wander along the beach and make your way back up at a carpark. Taranaki is no walk in the park. As of now (May 2019) all the public huts within Mt. There are beautiful walks through the abundant rain forest to waterfalls, wetlands and excellent viewpoints. Every customer was greeted warmly on their arrival and the food is excellent. Although the route can be walked year round the higher parts can be affected by snow and ice in winter and spring. Walks and Hikes in the Egmont National Park. These 5 best Taranaki walks include strolls along the beach, in the bush, and up the mountain. Hey serious travellers, you do need to visit this beautiful region. It is the second highest point in the North Island after Mount Ruapehu.Although the mountain is more commonly referred to as Taranaki, it has two official names under the alternative names policy of the New Zealand Geographic Board. This walk takes you to the photo you’ve seen of Mt. The views from the top of the cliffs are pretty great, but the best part has to be the walk along the beach underneath the towering white cliffs. The trail then goes up, up, and up for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours to the Pouakai hut. The Taranaki water fall is pretty spectacular and makes for a great day out in National Park. Taranaki. All Adventure, Sport & Recreation Arts & Culture Family Forgotten World Mount Taranaki Museums & Heritage Nature & Wildlife Parks & Gardens Surf & Water Tours & Experiences Walking & Hiking If you want a challenge, the Mount Taranaki summit track is certainly that! That’s pretty rare as I’ve been up there a lot and only had one or two days like that. Turn onto Egmont Road and follow this up … Learn More. This stunning day walk is a section of the Pouakai Circuit, which makes its way around Mt Taranaki. There have been a series of volcanoes here in the past that now include the Pouakai range, Kaitake range, Paritutu, and the Sugarloaf Islands. But we are here to talk about walking so let’s get to it! Mt Taranaki. Return the same way you came. Go to the left for about 20 minutes and you’ll arrive at the Pouakai tarn. For our latest Itinerary Ideas, Travel Stories & Inspiration, to start your trip of a lifetime! Egmont National Park surrounds Mt. How can you not be drawn by the magnificent Mt Taranaki in the centre of lush forest? From there, turned off down Opanake Road to East Egmont to the Mountain House Café & Accommodation. Time to head to Dawson Falls. Photo: Kay Davies Track categories Choose the type of track that most suits the skills and abilities of your party. 1 #59 of 71 Outdoor Activities in Taranaki Region. There are many access points to the Carrington Walkway so there is no need to walk the whole loop and all its sidetracks if you don’t have the time. The track starts in North Egmont. From New Plymouth, follow SH3 for 13 km to Egmont Village. Taranaki Falls Walk, Mt Ruapehu. Astonishing enough, we saw people navigating these steep steps…once again, in jandals. In particular, crossing the Boomerang Slip can be dangerous in icy conditions. Then you get above bush line and wander around the mountain in the tussock until you get to the translator tower. The 8-12 hour hike to Mt Taranaki’s summit is the most challenging and dangerous walk on the mountain, however it leads to one of the best views. Easy access short walk: suitable for people of all abilities, wheelchairs and children’s buggies. Discover regional highlights such as the sprawling Pukekura Park (opens in new window), Te Kainga Marire (opens in new window), or, for the more adventurous, Pukeiti (opens in new window) - the rainforest garden nestled in the foothills of Mt Taranaki. The first day we went up the mountain the weather was lovely both down in New Plymouth and up on Mt Taranaki. Shopping. New Zealand is a hiker or walkers paradise because there are so many outstanding day and multi-day walks. Taranaki is fierce in colour, and vibrancy it’s no wonder the region is dazzling with some of New Zealand’s most spectacular gardens. Located on the west coast of New Zealand’s north island, this volcano is 2,518m high and is an almost perfect cone. Short Walk: well formed, easy walking for up to an hour. These must do day hikes in the Taranaki area are great year round. This waterfall is beautiful – a cascading.,powerful avalanche of water. In winter … Taranaki. . The Around the Mountain Circuit (AMC) is a challenging track that passes through forest, rivers and spectacular alpine scenery. Pouakai Tarns Trail Highlights And Logistics. Share. Walks — Discover Taranaki. Mount Taranaki / Mount Egmont is a dormant stratovolcano in the Taranaki region on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. Taranaki hiking and guided walks may offer everything from family-friendly short walks, to multi-day hiking excursions, to professional guided walks. Egmont or Mt. BUSH WALKS & TRAILS. After living in the Taranaki area on the north island I’m super glad to be here and not elsewhere. Your email address will not be published. Paritutu is an old volcanic outcrop on the southern edge of town, just past the port. I am a pretty fast, but not super fast walker. Mangorei Track #64 of 71 Outdoor Activities in Taranaki Region. Copy link. The best time of year to walk the Pouakai Crossing is from December to April. Lake Mangamahoe is an area of forest tracks, awesome views of Mt Taranaki, a mountain bike park, and a bridle zone. Be warned that the walk down and back up Dawson Falls is quite steep and you will need to be fit and sure-footed. The Taranaki area has it all – beaches, cliffs, mountains, rivers, and native forest. In all seasons please check conditions with Metservice and DoCbefore beginning your walk. This climb is the most spectacular and adventurous in Taranaki but is not to be taken lightly - Mount Taranaki is more difficult and dangerous than it may appear. Photo: Kay Davies Track categories Choose the type of track that most suits the skills and abilities of your party. Difficulty – Moderate Took us about 45mins all up. Mount Taranaki is New Zealand's most perfectly formed volcano. You’ll get great views of Mt Taranaki, out over the north Taranaki countryside to the coast and inland to Mt Ruapehu. Taranaki. North Taranaki is a region of contrasts, with rolling farmland, rugged hill country and a dynamic coastline. These interesting short and overnight walks in Taranaki are good options for getting outdoors with children. Hiking Mount Taranaki. I’m going to guess that this may change in the future due to increased usage and the possible creation of a Great Walk. From the summit, you can see much of the north island’s west coast, the central plateau including Mt Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu and … You have to time this one such that you are on the beach within 2 hours of low tide. WALKWAYS. The Pouakai Crossing is Mt Taranaki’s premier one day walk and takes in the highlights of the longer Pouakai Circuit. 812.8 0 Meters 812.8 01-December-2015. Not only are they baristas, wait staff and cashiers but they also act as receptionists for the accommodation here. Some parts on the beach are impassable outside of that small window. If you’re spending the night at the Pouakai Hut, then be sure to first drop off your overnight gear at the hut and claim your bunk bed before heading to the tarn. The staff are lovely but worked off their feet. Short Walk: well formed, easy walking for up to an hour. The around the mountain track that circles Mt. Mt. Mt. Egmont National Park are on a first come first serve basis. Taranaki + Walking & hiking. Price - From $75 per person. ( Our telephone lines are open from 8am to 6pm on Monday to Sunday NZST ), Current time in New Zealand: 22:25:47 2021-03-05, © Copyright Guest New Zealand 2021 | Terms, Mt Taranaki Walks, Stratford Mountain Cafe and Dawson Falls. The region of Taranaki surrounds the foot of Mount Taranaki, a dormant volcano that peeks above the clouds. Wonders of all kinds, never cease. Taranaki heading towards the coast at Oakura. Taranaki is located on the western side of New Zealand's North Island and offers countless opportunities for adventure seekers. As we said, the best thing about Taranaki is Mount Taranaki, the heart and soul of Egmont National Park. This multi-day walk is a fun, challenging walk in the Taranaki area. Please remember poo bags, pick up after your dog, and take the bags with you if no bin handy. There are many access points to the Carrington Walkway so there is no need to walk the whole loop and all its sidetracks if you don’t have the time. If you can score this walk on a clear, wind free day then you may get that same view and photo for yourself. Taranaki + Walking & hiking. Required fields are marked *. On a clear day you can see the National Park township and main road to Taupo. High and low level options exist for some sections, with higher level options recommended for their scenery. We’ve recently based ourselves for a few days in the splendid little city of New Plymouth and travelled South-East to Stratford. This loops is a great way to see part of the park if you only have a few hours. Taranaki hiking and guided walks may offer everything from family-friendly short walks, to multi-day hiking excursions, to professional guided walks. The beautiful region of Taranaki offers a huge range of opportunities for day walks – enjoy lush native forest and stunning volcanic views. This climb is the most spectacular and adventurous in Taranaki but is not to be taken lightly - Mount Taranaki is more difficult and dangerous than it may appear. Select an Activity option in Taranaki. On the Mt Taranaki walks, you’re literally surrounded by thick canopies of ferns and the lushest growth you’ll find anywhere in New Zealand. There are plenty of walkways around the region, with a mix of terrain & surfaces. It is around 120,000 years old and last erupted in 1775 and volcanologists agree that the mountain is 'dormant' rather than extinct. This means that they can’t be booked ahead of time. Egmont or Mt. We are mystified as to why our travellers still miss out this gorgeous region. You can park at Paritutu, climb the peak, then go around it to the other side where you find a sandy dune gully that is perfect to play on as you make your way down to the beach. We went to the end of the road at all three of these points to do some of the short walks. Taranaki Tramping, Hiking, Bush & Guided Walks are breath-taking, invigorating and liberating in the extreme with hikes up to the crater of Mt Taranaki and elsewhere. Please remember poo bags, pick up after your dog, and take the bags with you if no bin handy. The ring-plain which surrounds Mount Taranaki (Egmont) has been cleared of forest and is intensively farmed. The heart of this area is Mt. The walks in South Taranaki are as variable as the landscape. A $19.1m upgrade of facilities on the Taranaki/Pouakai Crossing is expected to add 40,000 tourists to the region by 2025. Just above the hut the track reaches a saddle with great views. Info. North Taranaki Hiking Trails. Mount Taranaki in all its glory. Updated November 22, 2020. Mount Taranaki Huts – Public Huts General Hut Information. It travels around Opunake Lake and across the cliffs, providing views of Te Namu Pa, Mt Taranaki and the rugged coastline. ... Mount Damper Falls Walk.