Kōkōwai Track round trip
Alerts
Avalanche NZ
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NIWA weather risks
NIWA's Parks Weather site lists daily weather risks for the forecast point below.
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Forecast point: North Taranaki VC (960m) · 0.6km away
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
A great all day hike for those wanting both an alpine and forest experience.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
From the visitor centre, follow the Holly Hut Track through subalpine scenery to the junction with the Kōkōwai Track, just past the Boomerang Slip.
Descend the Kōkōwai Track through forest to where it joins the Kaiauai Track. Turn right to head toward Egmont Road.
Return to the visitor centre via the Ram Track (longer and overgrown in places) or by walking up the road.
Getting there
The track starts at the North Egmont Visitor Centre.
To get there, head 13 km south from New Plymouth to Egmont Village. Turn off SH3 on to Egmont Road and follow it for 16 km to the end. The visitor centre is signposted from the junction.
Know before you go
The upper part of this track is very exposed and not recommended for winter use unless you are equipped with an ice axe and crampons.
Take care crossing the active Boomerang Slip. It is recommended that you cross one person at a time.
Some sections of the Kōkōwai Track have steep drop offs.
Track conditions
This track has overgrown sections and can be hard to navigate. There may be fallen trees.
Be prepared for changeable weather
Weather on the mountain changes rapidly – you must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions.
Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged.
Check the Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki weather forecast before you go.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track