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.
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1 / 5North Egmont area
Kōkōwai Track round trip
A great all day hike for those wanting both an alpine and forest experience.
Distance
12 km
Walking time
6 hr
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
Weather outlook
Mount Egmont National Park forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:23 pm
12 October 2026
A few showers, more persistent in the morning and afternoon.
13 October 2026
Showers, some possibly heavy.
14 October 2026
Showers.
15 October 2026
Rain turning to showers, some heavy. Snow lowering to 1400 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Kōkōwai Track round trip on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Kōkōwai Track round trip
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.
Essential information for Kōkōwai Track round trip
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. This track has overgrown sections and can be hard to navigate. There may be fallen trees.
Getting there for Kōkōwai Track round trip
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. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
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 . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive 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 .
Dog access for Kōkōwai Track round trip
No dogs.
Before you walk Kōkōwai Track round trip
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.