Egmont National Park was established in 1900, and is dominated by the dormant volcano of Mount Taranaki.
Since the area has high annual rainfall and mild coastal climate there is a lush rainforest covering the foothills- this forest is nationally significant for a rich Northern rātā/Rimu/Broadleaf forest and the total absence of beech trees (genus Nothofagus).
The character of the plant communities continues to change with increasing altitude, to subalpine and alpine shrublands at high elevations, which are in stark contrast to the surrounding pasture farmlands. Notable among the geographical features of the park is its clear radial drainage pattern (visible in the second photo on the right).
WALKING TRACKS
All tracks are well-signposted and regularly maintained. Department of Conservation (DoC) huts are spaced approximately a day’s walk apart right around the mountain and require a ‘back Country Hut’ pass to stay overnight.
All the walks provide spectacular views of the mountain, the surrounding countryside, the moss-laden mountain forest and in the distance, the mountains of the central North Island.
MANGANUI GORGE
All the walks provide spectacular views of the mountain, the surrounding countryside, the moss-laden mountain forest and in the distance, the mountains of the central North Island.
MANGANUI GORGE
Spectacular views of the Manganui Gorge and the main peak are gained after only 15 to 20 minutes.
DAWSON FALLS
DAWSON FALLS
The Dawson Falls area has become noted for its scenery and the half day walks are a major attraction for both young and old. All of these tracks are clearly marked with colour coded signs and direction markers, and the entrance to the bush area has a large map showing where each track goes and approximately how long walk takes.
THE MANGANUI SKIFIELD
THE MANGANUI SKIFIELD
The Manganui Skifield is located at the end of Pembroke Road at East Egmont. A club field, the ski area is relatively small and low and operates for up to three months of the year.
