Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
and descend through 'goblin forest' to Dawson Falls, where you can stay at either Konini
Lodge (bookings required), or continue to Waingongoro Hut (16 bunks), 1½ hours from
Dawson Falls.
SIDE TRIP: FANTHAMS PEAK
6-7 HOURS RETURN, 10KM, 1066M ASCENT
When the weather is kind this is a worthy side trip with splendid views of Taranaki and to
the coastline far below. From the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre take the
Fanthams Peak
Track
and follow it up past the Hooker Shelter before ascending a steep staircase to the
junction with Upper Lake Dive Track.
From here it's around 1½ hours following a poled zigzagging route up precipitous scoria
slopes to
Syme Hut
(10 bunks) and
Fanthams Peak
(1966m). The hut, at 1950m, is the
second highest on the North Island. Soak up the lofty views before heading back down the
same route you came up, or settle into the hut if you've been game enough to lug your pack
up with you.
The track is very exposed along its upper parts and is best avoided in winter and inclem-
ent conditions unless parties are appropriately experienced and equipped with ice axes and
crampons.
Day 5: Dawson Falls to North Egmont
HIGH TRACK 4-5 HOURS, 11KM, 614M ASCENT; LOW TRACK 7-8 HOURS, 14.5KM
Again there are low- and high-track options. The high track is the more direct route, achiev-
able in fine weather. In bad weather it is very exposed, and may be impassable due to snow/
ice in winter conditions.
The high track follows the well-benched
Wilkies Pools Track
, which climbs northwest
away from the car park. The tramp begins in forest, and within 30 minutes arrives at
Wilkies
Pools
, an interesting series of small pools and cascades gouged out of a lava flow by the
stream.
From Wilkies Pools cross the river and continue until you reach a track junction; from
here follow signs to
Stratford Plateau
.
Once you reach the Stratford Plateau car park follow signs to the Manganui Ski Field.
This track will take you through a small tunnel, and down into the Manganui Gorge before
climbing to the ski field area. Follow the markers across the tussock slope to continue on the
track to privately owned Tahurangi Lodge, reached around 1½ hours after leaving the Strat-
