Guided ascent of Mt Taranaki/Egmont
Mt Taranaki is magnificent and beautiful.
We offer guided ascents on a daily basis. Your group will need to book in advance for a day climb or for one of our spectacular early sunrise climbs. These have become very popular.
Why come with us?
We know the correct route to take. We have up-to-date and historical knowledge of the area, and we tailor our pace to your fitness levels. You'll have a fun, 'Ultimate Mountain Experience'.
What time will you start the climb?
Our guided tours leave at 7.30am from New Plymouth. We start the ascent at 8.00am from the Egmont Visitor's Centre, and finish sometime around 5.00pm.
What does it cost?
Price on application. School and group discounts are available.
How long will it take?
From North Egmont Road End a climb takes approximately 5 hours up and 3 hours down.
Do you have to be fit?
Average fitness is required on the normal route. Steeper and more challenging routes are available for people with a higher standard of fitness or experienced climbers. If you would like to travel on any snow slopes you'll need an ice axe and crampons. In winter conditions an ice-axe and crampons are supplied by your mountain guide.
What equipment will I need?
You will need:
- tramping / trekking boots
- raincoat or weather proof jacket
- over trousers
- woollen or synthetic jersey
- long trousers (track pants or long johns (not jeans)
- warm shirt
- sun hat
- gloves or mittens
- sunglasses
- sun protection block
- plenty of food
- at least 1.5 litres of drink
- personal 1st aid kit
- camera
- and a smile on your face.
General description of normal route
We'll leave North Egmont (960m) between 7am and 8am or earlier in summer.
Stage 1: Tahurangi Lodge (1520m) - 1 hr 15 minutes
Stage 2: Lizard Ridge (2200m) via scree slopes - 2 hours
Stage 3: Crater and summit (2518m) via a lava flow, snow and rock - 1 hr
Stage 4: Return down same route
Times vary due to mountain conditions and party fitness.
Note: There is always snow and ice in the crater and summit area. Care is needed.
Leave only footprints
- Protect plants and animals
- Remove all rubbish
- Bury Toilet waste
- Consider other mountain users
- Respect our cultural heritage
- Enjoy your visit!
- Toitu te whenua (Leave the land undisturbed)
Taranaki the chieftain!
The summit area is a culturally sensitive area to the local Maori people who refer to Taranaki as an ancestor. The top of the mountain is considered to be his head and the Iwi ask climbers not to climb on the 'Summit Rock' itself. Please respect their wishes.
More information on Mount Taranaki
Book by e-mail, or call 027 441 7042.
