Taranaki is a paradise for hikers
Offering a mix of dramatic mountain landscapes—including Taranaki Maunga, the region’s highest peak, standing tall at 2,518m and now recognised as a legal personality – to lush rainforests, and coastal vistas that will take your breath away.
The surrounding Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki National Park provides over 200km of walking and hiking trails, catering to all levels of adventure. Whether you're chasing reflections in alpine tarns, wandering through towering redwood forests, or following rugged cliffside tracks, these walks showcase the best of the region’s natural beauty. Pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore Taranaki—one incredible hike at a time.
1. Pouākai Crossing – The Ultimate Taranaki Day Hike
For an unforgettable one-day adventure, the Pouākai Crossing is a must. This 19km hike takes you through the heart of Te Papa-Kura o Taranaki National Park (formerly Egmont National Park), showcasing our diverse landscapes—from mossy forests and golden tussock fields to the famous Pouākai Tarn, where on a still day, you’ll see a perfect reflection of Taranaki Maunga. The journey also includes the towering Dieffenbach Cliffs, expansive views across the region, and a descent through lush podocarp forest. If you're short on time, take the Mangorei Track for a 2-hour (one-way) hike directly to the Pouākai tarn.
2. Manganui Gorge Track – A not so Hidden Gem with Stunning Views
This walk is quickly gaining popularity due to the stunning suspension bridge that opened in May 2024. Beginning at the top end of the Plateau car park, the Manganui Gorge Track takes you up the access road before winding through alpine vegetation and leading you to the stunning suspension bridge that spans the Manganui Gorge, providing incredible views of the river below.
The 100-metre bridge sits 49.5 metres above the gorge floor. The stunning balustrade panels were designed by Ngāti Ruanui and depict the various phases of avalanches.
As you continue, boardwalks guide you over deep gullies, and the landscape opens up to sweeping panoramas of the surrounding farmland and coastline before arriving at the Manganui skifield, bring a picnic for an enjoyable stop before heading back to your vehicle.
Best tackled on a clear day, this hike showcases a unique and dramatic side of Taranaki Maunga.
3. Wilkies Pools & Dawson Falls/Te Rere o Noke - Discover the Region’s Enchanting Rainforest
An easy yet enchanting walk, the Wilkies Pools track is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. This 1.9km loop accessible to prams and wheelchairs takes you through a landscape straight out of a fairytale—the goblin forests draped in moss, before arriving at the volcanic rock pools shaped by thousands of years of water flow. Scour up the rocks around the pools for better mountain views, but take care as it can be slippery.
Te Rere o Noke/Dawson Falls is an impressive 18m waterfall cascading over rugged lava formations. The 250m one-way track is an easy walk down a series of steps. Descend to the lookout point, or further to the base of the falls.
These walks are a great option for those wanting a taste of Te Papa-Kura o Taranaki National Park without the long hike.
Please note: Te Rere o Noke and Wilkies Pools have high cultural and spiritual significance for Māori. They are considered a place of healing connected to the cleansing power of the water that flows from the sacred mountain. Visitors are asked to show respect by not entering the water and leaving no trace by removing all rubbish.
4. Lake Mangamahoe – Serenity with a Mountain Backdrop
Lake Mangamahoe offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of Taranaki Maunga. The 6km loop track winds through pine forests, and along the lake’s edge, providing plenty of picturesque viewpoints along the way. Whether you walk, run, or simply stop to take in the scenery, this trail is a favourite for both visitors and locals. Located just a short drive from New Plymouth.
5. Whitecliffs Walk – Coastal Beauty and Dramatic Cliffs
For an unforgettable coastal hike, Whitecliffs Walkway is a must. This 6.5km track takes you across private farmland, along the dramatic clifftops, and down to a black sand beach where you’ll feel engulfed by the stunning white limestone cliffs towering beside you. This walk is a spectacular blend of wild coastline and stunning geological features, offering views that stretch endlessly across the Tasman Sea.
Please note: Beach access is only available at low tide. Always check the tide times before heading out, as parts of the beach track become impassable at high tide.
Know before you go
Be prepared with sturdy footwear, warm layers, and plenty of water especially on mountain and national park tracks as weather conditions in alpine areas can change rapidly. Always check the weather forecast, and let someone know your plans before you set off.
Check out the DOC website for the most up-to-date track information and conditions.