If you’re after one of the most rewarding short hikes in the North Island, Mount Tauhara track absolutely delivers.
Found in the Central North of New Zealand, this is an extinct stratovolcano (a steep, cone-shaped volcano formed by layers of lava, ash, and debris) and is located just outside of the beautiful Taupō. The walk up this mountain offers sweeping lake and mountain views, native bush, and an easy-to-access trailhead that feels worlds away from town.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know before hiking Mount Tauhara. So far it’s been one of my favourite views in 2025, so I’m excited to tell you all about it!
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- MOUNT TAUHARA LOCATION
- HOW TO GET TO MOUNT TAUHARA TRACK
- KEY INSIGHTS FOR HIKING MOUNT TAUHARA TRACK
- BEST TIME TO VISIT
- HOW CROWDED IS IT AT MOUNT TAUHARA
- IS IT SAFE TO WALK IT SOLO
- PHOTOGRAPHING MOUNT TAUHARA
- ACCOMMODATION AT MOUNT TAUHARA
- CAN YOU CAMP ON THE MOUNT TAUHARA TRACK
- OTHER ACTIVITIES NEARBY
- SUMMARY
- FAQs
MOUNT TAUHARA LOCATION
Mount Tauhara at 1,088 meters above sea level, lies east of Lake Taupō in New Zealand’s Central North Island.
HOW TO GET TO MOUNT TAUHARA TRACK
The Mount Tauhara track is a mere 10 minute drive from central Taupō. The easiest way to reach the trailhead is by car. However, if you don’t have a vehicle, taxi or Uber from town is a the perfect alternative.
Parking tips
The trailhead is at the end of Mountain Road. The carpark is pretty obvious as it then diverts into a gated, private residence. You’ll find over 15+ parking spaces here, with some additional roadside grass parking as long as you leave room for others.
There is great cell service at the base of the mountain. I’m on Spark and had reliable service throughout the hike, just in case you need to order a ride.
KEY INSIGHTS FOR HIKING MOUNT TAUHARA TRACK
Distance: 7.3 km | 4.5 miles
Elevation: 520 meters
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Medium
Trail Type: There-and-back
Open: Year-round
The trail to Mount Tauhara’s summit begins with a walk through peaceful farmland. It’s flat at first but after a few minutes you’ll quickly start to gain elevation. Be on the lookout through these parts as you’re likely to come across some of nature’s little landmines. A.k.a a few surprises left by livestock.
Once you start walking through native bush, you’ll enjoy a bit more shade and nature sounds, like those of the tūī and fantail.
As the climb continues there are peaks through to views of Taupō but the summit is where it’s most spectacular. You’ll think you’ve come to the end where you see the summit marker but from there, walk along the spine of the mountain. Along the way you’ll predominantly have views facing east but once you get to the edge, the views across the township, Lake Taupō and on a clear day, to Mount Ruapeu, are pretty phenomenal.
We personally hiked during golden hour so we could experience sunset here. Sitting on the large boulders, right at the end of the ridge make for great seating to enjoy the show.
If you hike at sunrise or sunset, make sure to bring a headlamp. On the descent, we saw several possums along the trail. They startled us at first but are mostly harmless, just be sure to respect their space.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Anytime on a nice day would be great to visit and hike the Mount Tauhara track. If you’ve read any of my other guides you’ll know that I highly suggest golden hour and sunrise/sunset. It’s the perfect time to capture some stunning landscapes as it’s when the light is at it’s best.
It’s also open year-round but summer weather will definitely be the most reliable. We hiked in Autumn before daylight savings and this worked really well. It wasn’t super warm but we still got some beautiful weather.
HOW CROWDED IS IT AT MOUNT TAUHARA
Since Mount Tauhara is close to town, it is a popular walk—especially on weekends, holidays, and during the middle of the day.
However, when we hiked late afternoon we only passed a few groups making their way down. By the time we reached the top there was only one other couple at the summit watching the sunset.
IS IT SAFE TO WALK IT SOLO
Absolutely. This is a popular trail and close to Taupō so I would definitely feel confident with hiking solo. It’s also helpful knowing that there is cell service the whole hike, too.
However, as always, let someone know your plans, bring water, and warm clothing. The top of the mountain can be much cooler, especially when you factor in wind.
PHOTOGRAPHING MOUNT TAUHARA
If your passion lies in landscape photography (like myself), you’re in for a treat hiking the Mount Tauhara track.
There is so much variety. From farmland to forest and then the obvious, the summit. At the top of Mount Tauhara the views are 360 degrees, stretching across Lake Taupō and as far as Mount Ruapehu.
We visited at sunset and the golden light honestly, just made it look that much better. I’d highly suggest that if you’re aiming to photograph your journey to visit during this time. The views of Taupō and it’s surroundings were breathtaking.
Also, don’t forget to turn around, some of the best colours happen opposite the sunset.
ACCOMMODATION AT MOUNT TAUHARA
If you’re looking for accommodation that is central to Taupō, look no further than Acacia Bay Hotel. It’s a quiet spot near the lake, at a great price no less, and just a 10 minute drive to the trailhead. This is where we stayed while we visited Taupō and it was such an easy and nice experience.
Of course, you might want to explore other options in the area too. We booked this through booking.com but AirBnB also has a wide range of stays to suit different budgets, locations, and travel styles.
CAN YOU CAMP ON THE MOUNT TAUHARA TRACK
Unfortunately camping isn’t possible on the mountain. Mount Tauhara is on private and conservation land, with no designated camping areas.
For campsites near Taupō, check Love Taupo for the best local listings.
OTHER ACTIVITIES NEARBY
The Mount Tauhara track is just one of many outdoor experiences in Taupō. Here are some top picks that you could definitely work in with your hike, even if you only visit for a day:
Huka Falls
One of New Zealand’s most visited natural sites. The sheer power of the water is worth seeing up close. A short walk from the carpark brings you to multiple viewing platforms where you can watch 220,000 litres per second surge through the narrow canyon.
Taupō Waterfront
Ideal for a kayak, paddle board, picnic, or lakeside stroll. The views here are unmatched, at any time of day. There are also walking and cycling paths that follow the shoreline and plenty of cafes nearby.
Craters of the Moon
“Craters of the Moon lies within the Taupo volcanic zone that extends from three active volcanoes, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro in the south to White Island in the Bay of Plenty in the east. Its landscape can be traced back over 700 years. Underground geothermal activity along the belt shows itself on the surface as fumaroles, geysers, mud pools and hot springs.”
The raised boardwalk makes it an easy and family-friendly activity.
Hole in One Golf Challenge
This is a fun lakeside attraction where you can attempt to hit a ball into a floating pontine (with multiple holes). It’s tougher than it looks. The challenge draws a crowd, and even if you don’t hit the target, it’s a great and unique activity. Add this into a waterfront walk and you’ll tick off two of the six activities in this list!
Hot Springs
Relax after your hike at Taupo DeBretts or Wairakei Terraces. Natural hot pools are a great way to recover and each location has mineral-rich water that’s especially soothing after a hike.
Māori Rock Carvings
Accessible by kayak or cruise, these 14-meter carvings were created in the late 1970s. They’re also quite popular on social media. The journey across the lake is scenic in itself, and you can get close to the carvings just by paddling. Check out Heritage New Zealand to read the story.
SUMMARY
In this post, we’ve explored everything you need to know before hiking the Mount Tauhara track. From how to get there, to trail insights, to what to expect at the summit. Whether you’re chasing golden hour views, a solo adventure, or simply a short escape into nature, this hike really does have it all.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
For more travel inspiration around the North Island, check out my list of New Zealand’s ultimate destinations–packed with expert advice, personal experiences, and practical tips for every type of explorer.
Or, if you’re ready to dive deeper, explore all my comprehensive travel guides covering hikes, hidden gems, from places all over.
FAQs
Can you drive up Mount Tauhara?
No, driving up Mount Tauhara isn’t possible. This is a hiking trail only.
How long does it take to climb Mount Tauhara?
To climb one way, from the summit it will take you roughly 1 to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Where is Mount Tauhara?
Mount Tauhara is located in Taupō, Central North Island, New Zealand.
What does the name Tauhara mean?
The Māori dictionary translates to ‘odd one, odd one out – especially an odd number in excess’