Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Energy City Cabs
(
06-757 5580)
Rent-a-Dent
( 06-757 5362, 0800 736 823;
www.rentadent.co.nz
;
592 Devon St E;
8am-5pm Mon-Fri, to noon Sat)
Cheap car hire.
Scott's Airport Shuttle
( 0800 373 001, 06-769 5974;
www.npairportshuttle.co.nz
; adult from
$25)
Operates a door-to-door shuttle to/from the airport.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Mt Taranaki (Egmont National Park)
A classic 2518m volcanic cone dominating the landscape, Mt Taranaki is a magnet to all
who catch his eye. Geologically, Taranaki is the youngest of three large volcanoes -
Kaitake and Pouakai are the others - which stand along the same fault line. With the last
eruption over 350 years ago, experts say that the mountain is overdue for another go. But
don't let that put you off - this mountain is an absolute beauty and the highlight of any
visit to the region.
Access points for the mountain are North Egmont, Dawson Falls and East Egmont.
There are DOC info centres at North Egmont and Dawson Falls; for accommodation and
supplies head to Stratford and Inglewood.
History
According to Maori legend, Taranaki belonged to a tribe of volcanoes in the middle of
the North Island. However, he was forced to depart rather hurriedly when he was caught
with Pihanga, the beautiful volcano near Lake Taupo and the lover of Mt Tongariro. As
he fled south (some say in disgrace; others say to keep the peace), Taranaki gouged out a
wide scar in the earth (now the Whanganui River) and finally settled in the west in his
current position. He remains here in majestic isolation, hiding his face behind a cloud of
tears.
Activities
Tramping
Due to its accessibility, Mt Taranaki ranks as the 'most climbed' mountain in NZ. Never-
theless, tramping on this mountain is dangerous and should not be undertaken lightly. It's
crucial
to get advice before departing and to leave your intentions with a Department of
Conservation (DOC) visitor centre or i-SITE.
