Hiking around Mt Taranaki to Bells Falls
A stunning 2 day hike in New Zealand's Mt Egmont National Park
Jun 4, 2009
Mt Taranaki (also known as Mt Egmont) has some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery and some of its most accessible hiking trails. Located on the western tip of the North Island its perfect volcanic cone is surrounded by rainforest and numerous trails offering opportunities to hikers of all abilities
North Egmont Visitor Centre to Holly Hut
Starting at North Egmont the Holly Hut track ascends toward the mountain and joins the track that circles the entire mountain (the AMC). Hang a right and follow the track beneath the Dieffenbach cliffs and on to the Boomerang Slip. This loose rock slide should be tackled with caution. Continue along the AMC to Holly Hut. The views are stunning from start to finish. Guides will estimate that this section takes approximately 3 hours but may take much longer depending on weather conditions, fitness and the condition of the track. There are several streams to cross along this portion of the trail and occasional rockslides. Holly Hut has 38 bunks, a kitchen, toilet, and drinking water. It must be booked before you depart the DOC office at North Egmont.
To Bells Falls
Once you’ve ditched the rucksack at Holly Hut and refreshed yourself take the track to the spectacular 31m Bells Falls. It’s approximately 2 km from the hut. Along the way you pass the “Dome”, a bizarre volcanic bubble, and then descend into ancient moss covered forests to reach the falls. It’s advisable to return to Holly Hut before it gets too dark as the steps can be tricky in the gloom. There are great views of the Pouakai range from the hut’s veranda.
Holly Hut to North Egmont Visitor Centre
In the morning retrace your steps along the AMC track until you reach the Kokowai track. This descends from the open mountain ridge into lush forest that follows the course of the Kokowai stream. The track follows ridges deep into the mountain side, with spectacular views of the Kokowai gorge to the right. As you descend into the forest the track becomes more of a climb as it winds under trees, through deep fissures in the mountain, and over streams. There are several ladders and steep sections along this part of the track. Follow the track back through the lowland forest to North Egmont.
Do's & Don'ts
The visitor centre at North Egmont should always be notified of any planned hikes in the park, and notified when you leave so that search parties arn't sent on a wild goose chase. Tickets for the huts can be purchased at the office. The hut is basic, so bring food and a sleeping bag.
The weather on the mountain can change quickly so everyone should be prepared for the worst. October to May (spring to summer) are the most likely months to be snow free, but the AMC is often still scattered with patches of snow well into December. The Department of Conservation website has information for hikers in the park. To keep an eye on the weather check out Taranaki Vista which has a round the clock real-time mountain-cam.
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