East Egmont barrier-free walks
Easy access walk
Getting there
From Stratford, drive west on Pembroke Road to the Egmont Natonal Park boundary.
Access to the eastern sector of Mount Taranaki is provided by Pembroke Road which leads directly to the park boundary from the northern end of Stratford township.
The road climbs through popdocarp/broadleaf forest and then the montane forest, reaching the accommodation centre of the Mountain House Motor Lodge. The road winds its way another 3km to the road end car park at The Plateau (1172m) where there is superb views of the surrounding countryside.
About the area
Egmont National Park can be found on the western coast of New Zealand's North Island. Here the volcano Taranaki (or Mt Egmont as it is also known) rules supreme.
Description
Potaema Track
Time: 30 min
This wheelchair friendly track starts at the Potaema Picnic Area about 3km in from the park boundary on Pembroke Road.
Raised boardwalks take you through lush lowland forest made up of rimu-rata/kamahi, kahikatia and mountain totara/pokaka. The track leads to a large lowland bog that sustains a wide variety of flora and fauna. Magnificent views of the mountain can be had across the swamp from the viewing area.
The wheelchair accessible Lookout
Track
East Egmont Lookout
Time: 30 min
This track begins at the end of the road at the Stratford Plateau, (take a right hand turn just below the carpark toilets) and follow the signs to the lookout.
Here you will have spectacular views up the mountain and down to the Taranaki ring plain. See how plant types change with the altitude.
Activities
Activities with children
Skiing
During winter months the Manganui skifield is open for public use. These walks are great for families with a baby on board.
Plan and prepare
What to expect on an easy access walk:
- Easy walking for up to an hour
- Track is well formed, with an even surface. Few or no steps or slopes
- Suitable for people of all abilities and fitness
- Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes required