Pouākai Hut

Located in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki in the Taranaki region

Pouākai Hut is the most popular hut in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki.

The newly built Pouākai Hut opened August 2025. From the dining room and front deck the hut offers stunning views out to the North Taranaki coastline. Toilets and an outdoor deck are available for day visitors.  

A short walk takes you to views of Taranaki Maunga and the popular Pouākai Tarns reflective pools. An hour's tramp will take you down into the mighty Ahukawakawa with its unique flora and fauna.

Facilities and services

  • There are 34 bunks in 4 rooms with mattresses supplied: 

    • Room1 - 9 bunks
    • Room 2 - 9 bunks
    • Room 3 - 7 bunks
    • Room 4 - 9 bunks
  • Cold running water from a rainwater tank
  • Heating from a wood burner. Wood is supplied
  • Containment tank toilet a short walk from the hut
  • Kitchen benches
  • Fireplace
  • Dining areas

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $25 per night
  • Youth (5–17 years): $12.50 per night
  • Child/Infant (0–4 years): free

Backcountry Hut Passes can be used at this hut. 

How to pay with your Backcountry Hut Pass.

Camping

There is no camping around Pouakai Hut or near the Pouakai Tarns. The helipad must be kept clear in case of emergency. The closest camping site is at Holly Hut.

Bookings

A $10 service fee applies to phone and in-person booking. This is a limited service – book online first. An in-person booking is dependent on there being space available.

Bookings are required all year.

Book Pouākai Hut online.

Choose your bunk room when making your booking. Select your specific bunk bed on arrival.

Times from nearest road ends:

  • Mangorei Road end via Mangorei Track – 2 hours, 5 km.
  • Kaiauai carpark via Kaiauai Track – 5 to 6 hours, 10 km.
  • North Egmont Visitor Centre via Holly Hut Track – 5 to 7 hours, 12 km.

Tracks to this hut

Location

NZTopo50 map sheet: BJ29
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1689592, N5656608

Weather forecast

Pouākai Hut weather forecast – NIWA website

All drone use must be authorised by DOC

You must have a permit to fly a drone on public conservation land.

Visit our Drone use on conservation land page for more information.