Off the Beaten Track to... Mount Taranaki
Mount Taranaki (or Mount Egmont as it is also known) is in Egmont National Park in the Taranaki region in the south-west of the north island. This beautiful national park is home to lush waterfalls, rainforests and of course, New Zealand's most perfectly formed volcano.
Mount Taranaki is around 120,000 years old and last erupted in 1775. Mount Taranaki is popular with hikers and climbers as it is an achievable (though challenging) summit for non-mountaineers. During the winter months, summit climbs are for experienced snow and ice climbers only. Walking tracks below the summit are extensive, ranging from strolls to multi-day hikes. There is also a skifield on the eastern slopes (season runs from June to October).
Highlights
- Summit climb of Mt Taranaki - Allow about 6 to 8 hours for the return trip (for experienced hikers only)
- Kamahi walk / Goblin Forest - An atmospheric walk on the mountain's middle slopes and its paths trail through trailing moss and gnarly trees
- Around the Mountain Circuit - Takes 3 to 5 days to complete
- Pouakai Circuit - 2 day round trip starting and finishing at North Egmont
Note: It is advisable to register your intentions at the local DoC office before setting out on any hikes. Temperatures in the park can drop rapidly and soft snow can quickly turn into ice. When attempting the summit climb, be prepared for all weather eventualities.
Things To Do
- Take a scenic flight over Mount Taranaki
- Cruise Surf Highway 45 to all the top surfing spots
- Cruise to the Sugar Loaf Marine Park to encounter seals and other marine life
- Climb volcanic Paritutu Rock for spectacular coastal views
- Visit the Cape Egmont lighthouse. It's a wonderful spot for photography with distant Mount Taranaki as a backdrop
More Information
To help plan your holiday in the Whakatane region, simply choose from the main categories below:
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