Mt Taranaki & Egmont National Park

Known as either Mt Taranaki or Mt Egmont, the mountain is surrounded by green countryside with lush bushland, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and ever-changing moods that can leave Taranaki shrouded from view for weeks. A west-coast giant of 2518m, it towers over the surrounding area and neighbouring Fanthams Peak (1692m).

The most climbed mountain in New Zealand, Mt Taranaki is home to about 50 rivers as well as pristine temperate rainforest and sub-alpine plants. It offers a range of bushwalks and opportunities for climbing, skiing and snowboarding. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly, so check the weather and track conditions before departing and make sure you are properly equipped.

Located in the Egmont National Park on the slopes of Mt Taranaki is a unique North Island mountain experience, the Manganui ski field, with a ski school, patrol, ski hire, public shelter and lodge. A T-bar provides access to the lower slopes, which are open and gentle; the upper slopes are a lot steeper.

The Mountain House Motor Lodge has accommodation for the public, 3km below the ski field. This is a family friendly, uncrowded and affordable ski area.