10 October 2026
Cloud about northern faces. Rain developing at night, possibly heavy.
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Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki
Walk to Holly Hut for a day or overnight tramp.
Distance
8 km
Walking time
3-4 hr one way
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Weather outlook
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:23 pm
10 October 2026
Cloud about northern faces. Rain developing at night, possibly heavy.
11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy with thunderstorms and snow to 2000 metres, easing in the morning and clearing in the afternoon. Cloud remaining about western faces.
12 October 2026
A few showers, more persistent in the morning and afternoon.
13 October 2026
Showers, some possibly heavy.
14 October 2026
Showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
A decent walk for anyone wanting a 4-6 hour starting out walk for their first ever adventure into hiking. It starts off from North Egmont with quite a few stairs, but soon evens out into zig zagging around ridges on Mt Taranaki, until you reach the ridges opposite the Pouakai Ranges and begin the descent down to Holly Hut. The stairs aren’t too difficult and could easily be slowly attempted by a beginner, they are a little tedious but easily done with moderate fitness level. The views around the mountain/ maunga are spectacular once on the zig zags. Alternative options Holly Hut is located on both the Pouakai Crossing and Pouakai Circuit , and can also be accessed via Mangorei Track or Dover Route and then following Pouakai and Ahukawakawa Tracks.
There is water available in many streams along the track There is a slip to cross called Boomerang Slip, this isn’t too difficult, but carefully footing is required There are two unbridged river crossings. The first is larger and second is rather small, however this can rise with heavy rain. Bring an emergency shelter and be prepared to turn back if necessary. There is limited cellphone coverage along the track.
Holly Hut r equires bookings in advance via DOC's booking system. There is also the option to camp nearby using DOC campsite passes (first come, first served).
The starting point for this track is at North Egmont, however the carpark can be full during summer, especially on weekends and public holidays, so either get there early, arrange a shuttle, or consider an alternative starting point. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Taranaki can be a very windy spot; this is more likely as you gain elevation. Passing frontal systems can drop a lot of rain on the mountain in a short period. Low cloud can cause disorientation, especially above the bushline. You must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions. Sections of this track can become impassable in winter conditions due to snow and ice. Check with Egmont National Park Visitor Centre for up-to-date track conditions.
No dogs.
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.