East Egmont walking tracks
Walking track
Getting there
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.
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.
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.
Description
Manganui Gorge Track
Time: 1 hr return
This track begins at the top end of Plateau car park. Walk up the access road toward the ski field. At the flying fox there are good views of the Manganui Gorge and the summit of Mt Taranaki. The track continues up to the ski field where it continues as the high level summer Around the Mountain Circuit (AMC).
On a clear day this walk provides great views of North Taranaki and up the coastline. During winter the gorge section of the track is subject to avalanche danger and ice – be careful!
Patea Loop Track
Time: 1 hr 30 min return
This walk is a good introduction to the mountain environment and climbs up through some fine examples of pahautea (mountain cedar).
Begin on the track below the Mountain House, turning left at the first junction. Turn right at the next junction on the south bank of the Patea Stream. The track winds uphill through montane forest with large pahautea (mountain cedar). The track then crosses Pembroke Road above the Mountain House Motor Lodge and returns downhill following the Te Popo Stream. Turn right at the next junction to return to the car park.
Activities
Skiing
During winter months the Manganui skifield is open for public use
Plan and prepare
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required