Revived after good, warm night sleep at Manakau campsite we drive towards Mt Taranaki NP, dominated by a 2518m volcanic cone. We bypassed it on the way south, chasing good weather in Fiordlands, and now are eager to feel it under our soles. There is something magnetic about a volcano overdue to erupt [last one here was 350 years ago], luring with it’s dominating presence over predominantly flat surroundings. Even from afar it’s an absolute, awe inspiring beauty.
It’s possible to cover Pouakai Circuit in two days, crossing lowland rainforest, cliffs, sub alpine forest, and wetlands at the foot of Mt Taranaki/Egmont. With panoramic valley views, reveled shortly after steep 30 min ascend, and constant presence of the snowcapped volcano, it’s a very rewarding track rich in diverse terrain. Heading out around 8am we climb passed boulders, streams, swamps, and dry river beds, stop at Holly Hut for lunch and reach the next DOC hut, glued to the ridge, across the valley from Mt Taranaki around 4pm - ready to stretch our legs and take in the surroundings - Tasman Sea coastline in the background and mountain ridges draped in dense clouds.
At one point steps and ladders, 890 and counting, seem like a never ending nightmare. Sebastian presses ahead. I just try to act tough, tongue hanging out.
Mt Taranaki
It’s possible to cover Pouakai Circuit in two days, crossing lowland rainforest, cliffs, sub alpine forest, and wetlands at the foot of Mt Taranaki/Egmont. With panoramic valley views, reveled shortly after steep 30 min ascend, and constant presence of the snowcapped volcano, it’s a very rewarding track rich in diverse terrain. Heading out around 8am we climb passed boulders, streams, swamps, and dry river beds, stop at Holly Hut for lunch and reach the next DOC hut, glued to the ridge, across the valley from Mt Taranaki around 4pm - ready to stretch our legs and take in the surroundings - Tasman Sea coastline in the background and mountain ridges draped in dense clouds.
Climb shortly passed Holly Hut is a killer, but the views, like always, make up for any and all pains.
end of the day, ridge across the valley from Mt Taranaki
breakfast with the view
Early in the morning swamps and the view that inspired the urge to hike this trail are right in front of us. Breathe in.
There are some unabridged river crossings involved - really fun, especially when you’re slipping across moss covered boulders - until one almost claims our dry shoes.
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