A trip to the most beautiful views of Mount Taranaki
One of the most famous tours in Egmont National Park is undoubtedly the Pouakai Circuit. However, it is a 1–2 day circuit in the northern part of the park, which includes, among other things, a view of the volcano Taranaki, as reflected in the lake. If you only have half a day, you can, like us, choose a shorter option, but you will also get to the most beautiful views in this magnificent national park.
Climb the forest
A small disadvantage compared to Pouakai Circuit is that the road is not round and you will have to go back 800m elevation gain again. On the other hand, it may be an advantage for someone to start just a 20-minute drive from New Plymouth. The hike itself starts from a small parking lot at the end of Mangorei Road and is almost steep almost from the very beginning. However, it leads through a beautiful forest and is very well maintained. In addition, with increasing height, you can see how the local vegetation changes, which is quite interesting in itself.
Endless views
The guide states that the first goal, which is the Pouakai hut, is two and a half hours of practically continuous ascent, but we found it very exaggerated and we withdrew it by an hour. Towards the end, beautiful and distant panoramas of the vast surrounding plains and sea begin to unfold. In the Pouakai cottage there is even the possibility to spend the night (with your own sleeping bag and free) – I believe that in good weather, watching stars can be a beautiful experience at Mount Taranaki.
First view of Mount Taranaki
From the cottage we go a few tens of meters uphill, from where Mount Taranaki finally emerges in all its beauty. Its symmetry and shape are strikingly reminiscent of Japan's highest mountain – Fuji.
Lake Pouakai Tarn
After a while, the path starts to descend slightly and after about 15 minutes we come to a small lake Pouakai Tarn. From here you can take the most beautiful photos, especially if the wind is not blowing and the surface is calm. Unfortunately, it was blowing quite hard, which is very common in this coastal area.
Way back
The way back to the parking lot is the same, but due to the descending terrain it may be a bit faster.