Pouakai Tarns
Witness Mount Taranaki's iconic reflection in the serene Pouakai Tarns. A challenging but rewarding hike through native bush.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best reflections & fewer crowds
Pouakai Tarns
Best Time
Best reflections & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Mount Taranaki's iconic reflection in the serene Pouakai Tarns. A challenging but rewarding hike through native bush.
"The view you get coming up over the rise at the top of the majestic mountain is JUST STUNNING on a good day!"
Check the Weather Forecast!
Crucial for reflections. Aim for clear, low-wind days. NIWA is a good resource.
Wear Layers
It's warm climbing, but freezing at the top. Pack extra warm clothing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Reflection
Pouakai Tarns
Witness Mount Taranaki perfectly mirrored in the still waters of the tarns. A truly breathtaking and iconic New Zealand view.
Mangorei Track Forest
Mangorei Track
Trek through lush, native New Zealand bush. While the destination is the star, the journey through the forest is beautiful.
Pouakai Hut Viewpoint
Near Pouakai Hut
Catch your first glimpse of Mount Taranaki as you ascend. A rewarding vista before reaching the tarns.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Iconic Shot
Prepare for a Stairway to Heaven (and Sore Knees)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather Forecast!
Crucial for reflections. Aim for clear, low-wind days. NIWA is a good resource.
Wear Layers
It's warm climbing, but freezing at the top. Pack extra warm clothing.
Knee-Friendly Descent
Boardwalks have gaps, making poles tricky. Be mindful of your knees on the way down.
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The car park fills up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive by 8:30 AM.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather Forecast!
Crucial for reflections. Aim for clear, low-wind days. NIWA is a good resource.
Wear Layers
It's warm climbing, but freezing at the top. Pack extra warm clothing.
Knee-Friendly Descent
Boardwalks have gaps, making poles tricky. Be mindful of your knees on the way down.
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The car park fills up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive by 8:30 AM.
Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities on the trail, only at the hut. Stay hydrated and fueled.
Footwear is Key
Stairs can be muddy and slippery. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pouakai Tarns offers a breathtaking, iconic view of Mount Taranaki, making the challenging hike worthwhile for many. Visitors rave about the stunning reflections on clear days, but caution that the trail's many stairs and potential for cold, windy weather require preparation. Crowds can be significant, especially on weekends.
"This walk is a MUST DO!
Reasonable level of fitness will make the climb up alot more enjoyable 😉 Once you get used to the gaps in the slated wood tracks you are good for it!!! Nice climb up through gorgeous natives. There are toilets at the hutt just before you get to the Tarns. The view you get coming up over the rise at the top of the majestic mountain is JUST STUNNING on a good day! And it was my dream to get the perfect ICONIC shot - which I was so GRATEFUL to achieve!!!"
Kirsten Gerrand
"Guys please go prepared. It gets freaking cold up there at this time of year. It’s hot walking up but once you’re up there and the clouds and wind come it’s freezing.
Good amount of stairs. You’ll need a decent fitness level. Stairs can be muddy and slippery. Was super busy when I went - matariki weekend. Also was in the car park by 8:30am and it took us just over 3 hours. Including waiting at the top. Car park was overflowing when we got down."
Ellisha
"This was a hard one to rate. Hard, because the final destination is without a doubt exceptionally stunning and one of the most beautiful sights I've seen in New Zealand. The way there however...
The path itself is in excellent condition and well maintained. It is however almost 100% boardwalks with gaps in between the planks, meaning it's basically impossible to use walking poles for support. And while this was just a little tedious but still doable when going uphill, it became a major hassle/inconvenience when going downhill, as there is a huge strain on your knees from all these stairs. If you are at all prone to knee injury, be very careful and take the necessary precautions. I thought I was being careful and slow with my downhill walk but still ended up with major knee pain for the next week.
Speaking of stairs, there's a lot of them. I started counting them on my way back down cause I had nothing better to do but stopped when I got to 2500 - and I was only halfway down the mountain. The elevation itself rises gradually so it is very achievable to do even if you only have medium fitness (just take your time and you will be fine).
There are no benches or places to rest along the way. Also, be prepared and take extra layers for the top of the walk - it gets cold and windy once you reach the ridge! Furthermore, while the scenery drastically improves once you exit the treeline and first catch a glimpse of the mountain, about 85% of the walk is spent climbing through rather unremarkable NZ bush. I've tramped through many of NZ's forests and while many of them are absolutely stunning and awe-inspiring, this one is really unremarkable and boring. You really just gotta power through.
That brings me to my last point. This hike is all about the view at the end. Only do it if it's a clear day and you are reasonably certain you'll have a chance of actually seeing the mountain. Seriously. I cannot imagine enduring the endless, monotonous climb up all those stairs, only to be met with foggy soup at the end. But on a clear day, ideally with no wind so you can actually see the reflection - you'd be hard-pressed to find a more stunning sight in all of Taranaki."
Ezra Mähler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main access is via the Mangorei Track, starting at the end of Mangorei Road. This road is accessible by car. If coming from New Plymouth, it's about a 30-minute drive. 
Yes, there's a car park at the trailhead. However, it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Public transport options are limited. Most visitors drive or use private transport. Some shuttle services might be available from New Plymouth, but it's best to check locally.
The road to the Mangorei Track is generally open year-round, but it's always wise to check local road conditions, especially during winter, as weather can impact accessibility.
The drive from New Plymouth to the Mangorei Track is scenic, winding through rural landscapes. It's a straightforward route, but be prepared for some narrower sections as you get closer to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access the Pouakai Tarns or hike the Mangorei Track. It's part of Egmont National Park.
The track and tarns are accessible 24/7, as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, hiking in the dark is not recommended due to safety and visibility.
There is no entry fee for Egmont National Park. Access to the trails and natural attractions within the park is free.
Yes, Pouakai Hut is a DOC (Department of Conservation) managed hut and requires booking in advance, especially during busy periods. You can book through the DOC website.
No specific permits are required for day hiking on the Mangorei Track. However, if you plan to camp or undertake multi-day treks in the wider national park, you may need to check DOC regulations.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The return hike via the Mangorei Track is approximately 12.2 km (7.6 miles) and takes about 3.5 to 4 hours round trip, including time at the tarns.
The hike is generally considered moderate. It involves a significant amount of stairs and boardwalks, which can be strenuous, especially on the descent.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, and bring extra layers (including a waterproof jacket) as the weather can change rapidly.
Yes, there are toilets available at the Pouakai Hut, which is located just before you reach the tarns.
Early morning is often best for clear reflections and fewer people. However, any time on a clear day can offer stunning views. Check the weather forecast for wind.
While walking poles can help with balance, the boardwalks with gaps can make them tricky to use effectively. Some hikers find them more of a hindrance than a help on this specific trail.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The key is a clear, calm day with minimal wind. Check the wind forecast (NIWA is recommended) and aim for early morning or late afternoon light for the best reflections.
While beautiful year-round, autumn (fall) can offer stunning colours in the surrounding bush. However, clear winter days can also provide dramatic snowy mountain reflections.
The main viewpoint is right at the tarns themselves, where the reflection is most prominent. Be patient, as others will likely be waiting for their turn for the perfect shot.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of Mount Taranaki and its reflection. A polarizing filter can enhance the colours and reduce glare on the water.
Visit very early in the morning, especially on weekdays. Even then, you might have to wait for others to finish their photos before you get a clear shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to start early to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure you have ample time. The car park can fill up quickly. If the weather is poor or very windy, it might be best to postpone the hike with young children, as the conditions at the top can be harsh. Ensure everyone has appropriate footwear for potentially slippery surfaces.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Staying at Pouakai Hut is a budget-friendly option for overnight stays, though booking is essential and there is a fee. Alternatively, many backpackers and budget travelers opt for day trips from nearby New Plymouth, which offers a range of affordable accommodation and dining options.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the mountain and its reflection. A polarizing filter can be beneficial for enhancing colours and reducing glare. Be prepared to wait your turn, as this is a popular spot for photographers. Consider bringing a tripod for stable shots, especially in lower light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mangorei Track: A Journey Through Nature
Many hikers describe the forest section as beautiful but unremarkable compared to other New Zealand hikes. The real reward comes as you gain elevation and the first glimpses of Mount Taranaki appear. The final approach to the tarns involves a short walk from Pouakai Hut, where facilities like toilets are available. Remember to check the weather, as the conditions can change rapidly once you're exposed.
Community insights highlight the importance of preparing for the physical demands. While achievable for many, those with knee issues should exercise extreme caution on the descent due to the strain from the stairs and boardwalk gaps. The effort is widely considered worthwhile for the spectacular payoff at the tarns on a clear day.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Pouakai Tarns
Early morning is often cited as the best time for photography, offering soft light and fewer crowds. The golden hour around sunrise and sunset can also provide stunning photographic opportunities. Be prepared for other photographers, as this is a popular spot. Patience is key, and you may need to wait for others to finish their shots.
+1Beyond the reflection, the surrounding landscape offers its own beauty. The vibrant greens of the native bush on the Mangorei Track provide a lovely contrast, and the majestic presence of Mount Taranaki itself is a subject worth capturing from various angles as you ascend.
Understanding the Weather and Conditions
Wind is another critical factor. Even on a clear day, strong winds can whip up the water in the tarns, preventing any chance of a reflection. Many travelers emphasize checking detailed weather forecasts, specifically looking for low wind speeds, in the days leading up to their visit. Websites like NIWA are often recommended for accurate local weather data.
During winter, conditions can be particularly challenging, with ice and slippery surfaces being common. While the snow-capped mountain can be stunning, visitors need to be well-prepared for colder temperatures and potentially hazardous trail conditions.
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