Pouakai Summit

A historic volcanic cone, at 1400 M.A.S.L, Pouakai Summit is the third highest peak in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki (formerly Egmont National Park).

The track is not regularly maintained by DOC, with warnings it may be overgrown or pose navigational difficulty.

My experience (24 August 2025), the track begins with typical DOC steps of yesteryear, full of water and occasionally missing. Upon reaching the tussock, the track is marked by poles. As the poles lack markers and have lost their characteristic blaze orange, in low visibility, this could potentially pose a navigation challenge. A short traverse of the tussock and the track continues to climb a defunct and deteriorated stairway to heaven, ahead of following the ridge to the trig, which rewards amazing views towards the coast, New Plymouth city and back to Mt Taranaki, and a great place to refuel and admire the beautiful surroundings in peace. 

Getting there: As a side trip from the Pouakai Circuit or the Mangorei Track, the track junction is located above the Ahukawakawa Swamp, 30 minutes from Pouakai Hut. From the intersection, the summit is approximately 90 minutes return. 

Wildlife: 1/2

Scenic: 1

History / Points of interest: 1

Quiet / Relaxed: 1

Visit again: 1

Smiles per Hour rating: 4 1/2