Egmont National Park, founded in 1900, surrounds the mountain Taranaki Maunga. There are visitor centres at North Egmont and Dawson Falls, and both have displays and audio-visual shows about the park.
The walks range widely. The Ambury Monument Walk is the easiest grade and very short; at the Dawson Falls road end, the waterfall Te Rere o Noke drops 18 metres. For a longer day, the intermediate Mangorei Track climbs to the Pouākai tarns as a day hike, and the park’s huts can turn a walk into an overnight tramp, though hut stays have to be booked.
The trade-off is the weather: conditions on the mountain change quickly and unpredictably at any time of year, and it can be cold up at the visitor centre, so everyone needs clothing for all conditions.
Family FAQ
How much does Egmont National Park cost?
There is no charge to visit the North Taranaki and Dawson Falls visitor centres.
Where are the toilets at Egmont National Park?
24-hour toilets outside North Taranaki Visitor Centre and in the Dawson Falls car park.
Is Egmont National Park a good choice in bad weather?
North Taranaki Visitor Centre has a 24-hour foyer with weather and track information.
