Egmont National Park, Taranaki, New Zealand

Egmont National Park, Taranaki, New Zealand

Egmont National Park was created by a special act of parliament in 1900 and is the most accessible National Park in New Zealand.It protects the huge volcano Taranaki (or Mount Egmont, as it is also known) and two older volcanoes – Kaitake and Pouakai.

Taranaki is linked by legend to the mountains of the central North Island. As the story goes, Taranaki once lived with the other volcanoes of the central plateau – Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe. When he made flirtatious advances towards a pretty hill named Pihanga, Tongariro erupted in a jealous fury. Taranaki fled to the west, gouging out the Whanganui River on his way. Today Taranaki is still venerated and its summit is sacred to the Maori people of the area.

Egmont National Park has a huge variety of walks in a range of habitats, from a few minutes in length to several days. Most can be enjoyed on a single day.

Epic New Zealand Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound