The Waiwhakaiho Route starts by Rahiri Cottage at the edge of Egmont National Park. After entering the forest it climbs steadily uphill along the edge of the Waiwhakaiho Gorge, high above the Waiwhakaiho River. 

The route continues until you reach the junction with the Mangaoraka Track. The distances described on this page are to the Mangaoraka picnic area. From the junction there are a few options:

1. exit through the Mangaoraka picnic area to be picked up by prearranged transport
2. continue on to the Kaiauai carpark on Egmont Road to be picked up by prearranged transport (an extra 30 min walk)
3. return back down the Waiwhakaiho Route
4. or continue on to the Ram Track to North Egmont and complete the Ngatoro - Mangaoraka - Waiwhakaiho - Ram Track.

The track starts at Rahiri Cottage on Egmont Road. 

To get there, head 13 km south from New Plymouth to Egmont Village. Turn off SH3 on to Egmont Road and follow it to the edge of the forest. There is a car park next to the cottage.

Stream crossings

Unbridged stream crossings may become impassable after heavy rain.  

Track conditions

This track has overgrown sections and can be hard to navigate. There may be fallen trees.

Be prepared for changeable weather

Weather on the mountain changes rapidly – you must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions.

Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged.

Check the Egmont National Park weather forecast before you go.