Kōkōwai Track round trip

Located in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki and North Egmont area in the Taranaki region

A great all day hike for those wanting both an alpine and forest experience.

Limited parking at North Egmont road end

Car parking at the North Egmont road end is limited until December 2026 due to construction of the new visitor centre.

Large trucks will be using the road, so please drive carefully and expect occasional delays. We recommend carpooling or using a shuttle if you're planning a visit. The North Taranaki Visitor remains open.

For more information contact North Taranaki Visitor Centre ph 06 756 0990.

No camping sign

No freedom camping in North Taranaki Visitor Centre car park

From 19 December 2025, freedom camping is prohibited at the North Taranaki Visitor Centre car park at Egmont Road end. You can overnight camp at Stratford Plateau car park on Pembroke Road or Mangorei Road car park (Pouakai Tarns tramp).

From the visitor centre, follow the Holly Hut Track through subalpine scenery to the junction with the Kōkōwai Track, just past the Boomerang Slip.

Descend the Kōkōwai Track through forest to where it joins the Kaiauai Track. Turn right to head toward Egmont Road.

Return to the visitor centre via the Ram Track (longer and overgrown in places) or by walking up the road.

The track starts at the North Egmont Visitor Centre.

To get there, head 13 km south from New Plymouth to Egmont Village. Turn off SH3 on to Egmont Road and follow it for 16 km to the end. The visitor centre is signposted from the junction.

The upper part of this track is very exposed and not recommended for winter use unless you are equipped with an ice axe and crampons.

Take care crossing the active Boomerang Slip. It is recommended that you cross one person at a time.

Some sections of the Kōkōwai Track have steep drop offs.

Track conditions

This track has overgrown sections and can be hard to navigate. There may be fallen trees.

Be prepared for changeable weather

Weather on the mountain changes rapidly – you must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions.

Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged.

Check the Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki weather forecast before you go.