Pouakai Range tramping tracks
Located in Egmont National Park in the Taranaki region
Introduction
Visit the Pouakai Tarns and Mangakotukutuku Falls while exploring the rugged range of rolling hills covered in sub alpine bush.Walking and tramping
Advanced: Tramping trackSeasonal restrictions
In winter conditions upper tracks can have snow and ice - check with Egmont National Park Visitor Centre for up to date track conditions.
Dog access
Maude Track to Mangakotukutuku Falls
Time: 1.5 hr one way
Distance: 2.3 km to the waterfall
From the road end the track crosses farmland to the boundary of Egmont National Park. From here it climbs a spur on the Pouakai Range, arriving finally at the Mangakotukutuku Falls. A Māori oven can be found just below the junction of the Falls track on the true left side. Care must be taken not to disturb this archaeological feature.
When crossing farmland please respect private property, leave gates as you find them and stay on the route.
Getting there: Follow Kent Road from State Highway 3 south of New Plymouth. Turn right onto Maude Road and follow it to the end. Limited car parking available.
Mangorei Track to Pouakai Hut
Time: 4 - 5 hr return or overnight
Distance: 5 km to the hut
From the car park, follow the path back up to Mangorei Road and walk to the road end. Then follow the track signage up a driveway and into the bush. This track requires good fitness and footwear when walking up the rafted track surface and steps. It’s a steady climb up to the 16 bunk Pouākai Hut. Walk five minutes past the hut for great views down over Ahukawakawa Swamp. From here turn left at the track junction to access the Pouakai Tarns (pools) – a further 10 minutes walk along the Pouakai Track.
This is a good short day tramp, or you can stay over night at Pouakai Hut.
Getting there: The track begins at the end of Mangorei Road, New Plymouth.
Dover Track to Pouakai Hut
Time: 4 - 5 hr one-way or overnight
Distance: 7.8 km to the hut
From the track entrance this challenging track climbs steeply to an exposed spur leading up to Pouakai Trig. From here the track descends to the Pouakai Track junction and on to meet the Mangorei Track junction. Turn downhill here for a 5 minute walk to Pouakai Hut. Expect overgrown sections, tree windfalls and some scrambling over rocky outcrops.
Getting there: The track begins at the end of Carrington Road, New Plymouth (opposite Dover Road junction). Park on the roadside.
Weather conditions
Weather on the mountain changes rapidly. These tracks head up into the alpine zone, take suitable clothing and equipment and be prepared for all weather and conditions.
Your safety is your responsibility
Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
Contacts
| 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 |
| Full office details | |