POUAKAI CIRCUIT OVER 3 DAYS !

Photo; Rafick

Pouakai Circuit – Egmont National Park

Egmont National Park’s premier tramp offers spectacular views of Mt Taranaki and the surrounding countryside. The 25 km circuit passes through lush forest, alpine tussock fields, and the unique Ahukawakawa Swamp, with sweeping views across Taranaki and the west coast.

Friday 13 March 2026
8.00 AM – Leave Auckland (allow around 4½ hours).
1.00 PM – Start walking from North Egmont Visitor Centre.
Walk 4–5 hrs to Holly Hut (7 km – 460 m up and down).
Overnight: Holly Hut.

Saturday 14 March 2026
8.00 AM – Depart Holly Hut.
Walk to Pouakai Hut via Ahukawakawa Swamp and Henry Peak (6–8 hrs depending on fitness).
Enjoy spectacular views of Mt Taranaki and the surrounding valleys.
Overnight: Pouakai Hut.

Sunday 15 March 2026
8.00 AM – Walk from Pouakai Hut after fog clears (avoid early-morning fog).
Walk to North Egmont Visitor Centre (3–4 hrs) to complete the loop.
Drive back to Auckland (arriving evening).

Accommodation
Fri 13 Mar: Holly Hut' $25 pp (or free with $160 Backcountry Hut Pass, valid 12 months).
Sat 14 Mar: Pouakai Hut – $25 pp (or free with Backcountry Hut Pass).
Bookings via DOC website.

Weather
MetService – Egmont NP
NIWA – Pouakai Hut forecast

Gear
No cotton or jeans. Bring:
Thermal socks, hiking boots or trail shoes
Thermal top, warm layer, rain jacket
Backpack with liner (no rain covers)
Sleeping bag, headlight
Food, water, basic first aid
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Ear plugs (snorers likely)
Optional: hiking poles, buff, stove, pot, cutlery

Getting There
Use the Meetup comments section to request or offer rides.
Fuel contribution: TBC before end of October.
Drivers with hybrid cars please share some savings.
Only offer rides if fully insured and comfortable driving mountain roads.

Notes
Your safety is your responsibility.
Take back all rubbish.
Do not throw food waste into the bush (rats → stoats → dead native birds).

Contribution : $8 due 2 weeks BEFORE the event. Please make a transfer to 02-0200-0260173-000 Wakahi.com Limited.