11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, clearing in the afternoon with increasing fine spells. Northerlies, turning westerly around midday.
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1 / 17Taupō area
Mt Tauhara Summit Track
The trail to the top of Mt Tauhara is a favourite hike with locals and visitors. This 2.5km trail climbs to the summit at 1,088 metres, offering panoramic views over Lake Taupō and the central North Island.
Distance
6.48 km
Walking time
2-3 hrs return
Difficulty
Intermediate
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Taupo forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
12 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies developing for a time in the afternoon and evening.
13 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
Partly cloudy with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
15 October 2026
A few showers, some possibly heavy. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Mt Tauhara Summit Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Mt Tauhara Summit Track
The Mt Tauhara track is 3.2 km long with an elevation gain of 545 m. Each day, a steady stream of locals and visitors cross steep pastures for about 20 minutes before entering the forest and beginning a steady climb. The track starts with a grassy hill through farmland until the water tanks, then narrows into bush with rooty sections and dirt channels. On a good day, views overlooking Lake Taupō and the township are fantastic. The trig sits at 1,088 m above sea level, but don’t stop there - continue past the trig through overgrown brush to an exposed rocky outcrop for expansive views of the Central Plateau. Time your climb for sunset to enjoy a peachy glow across the landscape, but take a headtorch for the return journey. On wet days, the track can be slippery due to tree roots, but it dries quickly and can be walked or run the next day. Thanks to our friends at Love Taupō for track information.
Essential information for Mt Tauhara Summit Track
Prepare for this challenging hike with sturdy footwear, water, snacks, and warm clothing due to potentially chilly, windy conditions at the summit. Mount Tauhara holds cultural significance for the local Māori; please stay on the track and respect the environment. No toilets are available. Walking only. Mix of dirt trails with steps, at times rough. Stiles to cross.
Getting there for Mt Tauhara Summit Track
Just 10 minutes drive from Taupō to Mountain Road off SH5 Napier-Taupō Highway. 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 Mt Tauhara Summit Track
No dogs are allowed.
Before you walk Mt Tauhara Summit Track
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.