Tahurangi Translator Tower round trip

This is a scenic climb that follows a 4WD track uphill through changing alpine vegetation to a viewing point beside a commercial translator tower. There are good views of the surrounding countryside and the mountain.

From the visitor centre, follow the boardwalk past the Camphouse and on to the Summit Track. Follow the Summit Track to the translator tower.

You can return the way you came but to make a loop return via the Holly Hut Track. From the tower, continue past the privately owned Tahurangi Lodge and turn right onto the Humphries Castle Link Route. This is a poled route below ancient lava flows across exposed alpine terrain.

Turn right at the Holly Hut Track junction and descend steeply back to the Visitor Centre.

The track starts at the North Egmont Visitor Centre.

To get there, head 13 km south from New Plymouth to Egmont Village. Turn off State Highway 3 on to Egmont Road and follow it for 16 km to the end. The visitor centre is signposted from the junction.

The track is very steep in some places and exposed to the elements.

Stream crossing

Unbridged stream crossings can become impassable after heavy rain.

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.

Track conditions

This track has overgrown sections and can be hard to navigate. There may be fallen trees.