Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
One further afield this week but it’s such a gem, we just had to share these epic photos. If you haven’t hiked this loop or visited the Pouakai Hut, this needs to be on your bucket list.
Distance: 25km from Mt Egmont Car park (30km incl. Pouakai Peak)
Elevation: +1400m -1400m (+1800m incl Pouakai Peak)
With incredible views of Taranaki Maunga, the Pouakai Circuit is a spectacular unique loop that takes you through ancient volcanic landscape, alpine swamp and tussock.
This track starts at the North Taranaki Park Visitors Centre - definitely check in here as they have extensive weather forecasting info.
You head towards the majestic mountain through bush then out into the open where you sidle around the volcano (alpine gear needed for this section if there is snow in winter).
What is so great about this tramp is walking up close and personal to her. This route takes you to Holly Hut, a great spot for lunch then carry on through the swamp and up to the Pouakai range where you get great views looking back of Taranaki. A cheeky side trip to the Pouakai Trig is definitely worth it for epic sea views and of the central plateau mountains.
A stay at the brand new Pouakai hut is a must if you want to check out the fanciest DOC hut around. Hello stained glass windows, solar power, charge points, insulation - this is like staying in a hotel, scroll through the pics.
From here, you can get up to the Pouakai tarns (1km walk) for sunset and sunrise - if you are lucky you might get picture perfect conditions like this!
Then walk out back to the start at the North Taranaki visitors centre via new board walks and steps galore.
A great one day run in summer, or a perfect 2 day hike at Pouakai Hut, or take your time with an extra night at Holly Hut.
