Egmont National Park

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Egmont National Park is the second oldest national park in New Zealand it is located on the western coast of the North Island, New Zealand. The closest towns are New Plymouth, Inglewood, Stratford and Opunake.

Egmont National park is home to Mt Taranaki, New Zealand's most perfectly formed volcano. Mt Taranaki is around 120,000 years old and last erupted in 1775. Volcanologists agree that the mountain is 'dormant' rather than extinct. Mt Taranaki rules supreme standing tall above the surrounding landscape. Beside it are two other volcanoes: Kaitake and Pouakai.

Mt Taranaki has spectacular scenery to those who make the challenging climb. For those wanting a more relaxing experience there are beautiful walks through lush forest to waterfalls, wetlands and superb viewpoints.

Egmont National Park makes it possible to observe the development of plant species from surf to summit. The lowland forest is dotted with rimu and rata trees, which gradually make way for kamahi, totara and kaikawaka.

The 'Goblin Forest', on the mountain's middle slopes, takes its name from the twisted shape of the trees and the thick drapes of trailing moss. Above the forest you'll find sub-alpine scrub and alpine herbs. A broad network of walking tracks provides access to the unique beauty of the park.

Egmont National Park History

Egmont National Park was established as a national park in 1900. Maori legend provides an enchanting explanation for why Mt Taranaki stands alone. As the story goes, Taranaki once lived with the other volcanoes of the central plateau, Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. When he made romantic advances to Pihanga, a pretty hill that they all admired, Tongariro jealously blew his top. Taranaki fled to the west, gouging the Whanganui River on his way.

Main Towns in the Taranaki Region

Other Towns in the Taranaki Region