Welcome to Taranaki, a place where adventure meets natural beauty. If you’re seeking an unforgettable day hike, look no further than Pouakai Tarns. Nestled in the scenic Pouakai Ranges, this alpine destination is a photographer’s paradise and a haven for nature enthusiasts.
If you’re new to Taranaki and find yourself curious about what this hike has to offer, check out my comprehensive hiking guide below. It contains all the information you need, from stunning visuals to essential details.
WHY THIS HIKE
There are countless reasons why this hike should be on every adventurer’s bucket list. Firstly, the stunning views and surroundings are nothing short of breathtaking. You will navigate through native bush and tussock grasslands, so you are never short of a variety of scenery. When you arrive at the reflections of Mount Taranaki you will then treated to views of the surrounding mountains in the tranquil waters of the tarns, creating a scene that’s straight out of a postcard.
Embarking on the journey to Pouakai Tarns is not only a rewarding experience but also an achievable one, considering the time commitment involved. The hike to the tarns and back follows the same route. Roughly, the average round trip takes approximately six hours, so definitely a day hike. Remember, it’s not a loop track, so you’ll retrace your steps back to the carpark.
The well-maintained track also ensures a smooth and enjoyable hiking experience. While there is an abundance of stairs, they are a small price to pay for the incredible views.
GETTING HERE: MANGOREI TRACK
To begin your adventure, you will need to head to the base of the Mangorei Track. From New Plymouth it is roughly a 20 minute drive.
Convenient parking facilities and bathrooms are also available, ensuring a hassle-free experience from the get-go. As mentioned earlier there a many, many stars but the track itself is well-maintained making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.
TIMING YOUR HIKE
When it comes to experiencing the Pouakai Tarns, timing is everything.
I personally have only experienced end of day and evening. I have also heard great things about sunrise too. Time is whenever suits you best but if planning a day hike I would highly recommend sunset as you can experience the tarns as you would during the day but also see the incredible colours that golden hour to dusk provides.
Obviously this means you will be making the descent in darkness. If you also plan to do this, make sure you have a headlamp. As we made our way back, the nocturnal world came alive, and we even encountered a curious possum along the way. It added a touch of adventure to our hike, making it even more memorable.
Next time, I plan to stay in the nearby Pouakai Hut, allowing me the flexibility to witness the Tarns in different lights—during sunset, sunrise, and throughout the day, so if this is a bit of you check out the hut here.
Whichever time you choose, rest assured that the beauty you’ll witness at Pouakai Tarns will be nothing short of incredible
POUAKAI CIRCUIT AND OTHER HIKING OPTIONS
While the Mangorei Track leads you to the enchanting Pouakai Tarns, this trail is also part of the larger Pouakai Circuit, a multi-day hiking adventure that explores more of Egmont National Park. If you’re up for a more extended escapade, consider extending your hike as there is an array of options, ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice.
HENRY PEAK LOOKOUT: A BONUS ADVENTURE
As you explore the wonders of Taranaki, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Henry Peak Lookout. A hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Mount Taranaki, the Pouakai Ranges, and the mesmerising Tasman Sea. On a clear day, the view stretch as far as Mount Ruapehu.
With the summit of Henry Peak Lookout taking an additional 30 minutes from the Tarns, it is a bit of a challenge with almost vertical stairs and ladders, but trust me, it’s well worth every step.
Remember to bring your camera along to capture the scenery. The play of light and shadow, Mount Taranaki, the ranges and the vastness of the Tasman Sea is pretty incredible, and worth posting on the ‘gram.
HIDING MOUNT TARANAKI
Mount Taranaki, with its imposing presence, holds a weather system of its own. Even on the most beautiful days, clouds seem to have an affinity for gathering around this peak. It’s a reminder that nature can be unpredictable, and the weather conditions around the mountain can change rapidly so make sure to check the weather forecast before embarking on your hike.
A little preparation goes a long way!
OTHER ACTIVITIES IN TARANAKI
While Pouakai Tarns and Henry Peak Lookout were a highlight of my Taranaki adventure, there’s so much more to explore in this region. For a comprehensive guide on 8 must-visit destinations in Taranaki check out my blog post here.
From the enchanting Egmont National Park to the vibrant city of New Plymouth, Taranaki is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hiking to Pouakai Tarns in Taranaki is an experience that I can’t recommend it enough and is one that has earned a top spot on my list of highest-rated day hikes in New Zealand. From the stunning reflections on the alpine lakes to the breathtaking panoramas at Henry Peak Lookout, this region offers a wealth of natural beauty.