10 October 2026
Cloud about northern faces. Rain developing at night, possibly heavy.
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1 / 11Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki
Lake Dive tracks
Enjoy great views up the mountain and down to the Taranaki Ring Plain and the coastline on the way to picturesque Mangōraukawa / Lake Dive. You can walk the upper or lower tracks, or combine them to make a loop track.
Distance
12.87 km
Walking time
Upper track 3-4 hr, Lower track 3-4 hr, loop 7-8 hr
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
Taranaki Maunga alpine conditions
Weather outlook
Mount Egmont National Park forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:23 pm
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
Lake Dive tracks on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Lake Dive tracks
Mangōraukawa / Lake Dive Nestled at the base of the Upper Beehivea striking lava dome formed when molten rock welled up and solidified before breaking through, Mangōraukawa / Lake Dive is one of the park’s most scenic spots. There are two ways to reach the lake: the Upper Lake Dive Track and the Lower Lake Dive Track. Combine both for a rewarding 13 km loop. Upper Lake Dive Track Distance: 4.2 km Time: 3 - 4 hr Starting from Dawson Falls Road end, this track follows Fanthams Peak Track through lush forest to the junction with the Lower Lake Dive Track. From here, it turns right and climbs steadily via steps, passing Hilary Seat, Hooker Shelter, and the Kapuni Lodge Track, reaching about 1500 m altitude. At the next junction, the track heads left, crossing exposed alpine tussock slopes marked by poles before descending steeply to the lake. Note: The upper section is exposed and requires ice axe and crampons in winter conditions. Lower Lake Dive Track Distance: 6.2 km Time: 3 - 4 hr Also starting at Dawson Falls Road end, this track follows Fanthams Peak Track before branching left. It passes Hastie’s Hill, undulates through forest, and crosses several unbridged streams before reaching the lake. This route is more sheltered than the upper track but can become impassable during heavy rain due to stream crossings. Important: Lake Dive Hut was destroyed by fire in 2020 and has not been replaced.
Essential information for Lake Dive tracks
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. The upper track is very exposed and not recommended in winter unless parties are equipped with ice axe and crampons. It is better to return on the lower track during this time of year. Expect overgrown sections of track and some erosion in places.
Getting there for Lake Dive tracks
Start this track from the Dawson Falls road end. Starting in Stratford, turn off State Highway 23 into Celia Street, which becomes Opunake Road. Follow this for 14 km, then turn right into Manaia Road. Continue on this road for 9 km up the mountain to Dawson Falls Visitor Centre. Use this location on Google Maps to help 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 Lake Dive tracks
No dogs.
Before you walk Lake Dive tracks
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.