View down onto Holly Hut
Image: Tamsen Walker | DOC

Archived content: This media release was accurate on the date of publication. 

Introduction

Trampers hiking Taranaki’s popular Pouakai Circuit will soon be able to secure a bed for the night with both huts along the busy track moving to online booking.

Date:  30 September 2021

From 1 November 2021 Mt Taranaki’s Holly Hut will join Pouakai Hut becoming bookable online via the DOC website.

The 32-bunk backcountry serviced hut is along the scenic Pouakai Circuit, and the larger Around the Mountain Circuit tracks.

“Being at the junction of both popular tracks Holly Hut can get really busy during peak season on the mountain. Pre-booking online will ensure people get a bunk for the night,” says DOC Taranaki Recreation/Historic Supervisor Andy Johnston.

“To date, it’s been left to chance for visitors as to whether they will get a bed, or the hut is too full. The hut is a 3 – 4-hour tramp in from road ends. The added security of pre-booking will hopefully encourage people to get out and enjoy this hut without fear of missing out on a bunk and having to backtrack.”

Pouakai Hut moved to online booking in November 2020. Feedback from users has been positive, says Andy Johnston: “People appreciate knowing they will get a bed at the end of their tramp.”

From 1 November, trampers wanting to overnight at either hut need to register and book on the DOC website prior to setting out.  Trampers should carry proof of their booking with them

Backcountry hut tickets will no longer be valid at Holly Hut or Pouakai Hut, but they may be used at any other hut in the park. Pricing remains the same, with adults $15, youth (11-17 years) $7.50 and children 10 and under free of charge. Backcountry hut pass discounts apply.

Signs have been installed at track entrances and key huts in the park alerting trampers of the changes.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

Taranaki/Egmont National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 6 756 0990
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   egmontvc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   2879 Egmont Rd
Egmont National Park
Postal Address:   PO Box 462
New Plymouth 4340
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