Viewing Platform Walk

From the visitor centre, follow the wheelchair friendly boardwalk through bush to a viewing platform and the historic Camphouse.

There are stunning views of Taranaki, the coastline and inland to the central North Island mountains. On a fine day Ruapehu, Ngaruahoe and Tongariro are visible.

The track starts at the North Taranaki 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.

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.

Historic Camphouse

New Zealand’s oldest building within a national park is found at North Egmont. The historic Camphouse was originally used as military barracks in New Plymouth during the Taranaki Wars of the 1860s. The building was sledged to North Egmont in 1891 for use as accommodation.

The Camphouse has been restored and upgraded for backpacker accommodation – but many of its unique historic features such as handwrought corrugated iron with rifle firing slits (loopholes) and tongue and groove timber panelling are still visible.