Last updated November 2026
The Veronica Loop Track is an uphill loop from the North Taranaki Visitor Centre at North Egmont through changing alpine rainforest on the slopes of Taranaki Maunga. It passes the historic Camphouse and the Ambury Monument, climbs a long series of steps, then loops back through kamahi and Hall’s tōtara forest. DOC grades it Easy and allows 1 hr 30 min to 2 hr for the 3 km loop.
An optional 10 minute detour up the Holly Hut Track leads to a popular lookout with views of the mountain and out to the coast. North Egmont is about 24 km from New Plymouth, and when we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC said parking there was limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Veronica Loop Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- North Taranaki Visitor Centre, end of Egmont Road (North Egmont)
- Distance from the city
- about 24 km from New Plymouth
- Walking time
- 1 hr 30 min to 2 hr loop
- Track length
- 3 km loop
- Grade
- Easy
- Dogs
- No Dogs
- Track type
- Walking track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Veronica Loop Track
The Veronica Loop begins on the boardwalk past the Camphouse, then follows the track past the Ambury Monument before settling into a long climb up a series of steps.
As you gain height, the forest changes around you. At the top junction the loop turns back towards the visitor centre, descending through kamahi and Hall’s tōtara forest.
If you have the energy, carry straight on up the Holly Hut Track for about 10 minutes to reach a popular lookout point with views of the mountain and out to the coast, then return to the junction to finish the loop.
The steps are the hardest part, so take your time on the climb. The lower part of the loop is also the first section of the Pouākai Crossing.
Getting There and Parking
The track starts at the North Taranaki Visitor Centre. In Egmont Village, about 13 km south of New Plymouth, turn onto Egmont Road. The visitor centre is signposted at the junction, and the road runs 16 km to the end.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC said car parking at the North Egmont road end was limited until December 2026 due to construction of the new visitor centre, and that large trucks were using the road. It recommends carpooling or a shuttle. At that time the visitor centre remained open in a temporary building in the upper car park.
Weather and What to Bring
Taranaki Maunga has changeable and unpredictable weather at any time of year. Check the forecast before you go, carry warm and waterproof layers, and wear sturdy shoes for the steps. Check the DOC page for alerts and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Veronica Loop Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: North Egmont area: the visitor centre, parking notices and other walks that start at North Egmont.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Veronica Loop Track take?
DOC allows 1 hr 30 min to 2 hr for the 3 km loop. Add about 20 minutes return for the lookout detour.
How hard is the Veronica Loop?
DOC grades it Easy. It climbs steadily, including a long series of steps, before looping back down.
Where does it start?
At the North Taranaki Visitor Centre at the end of Egmont Road, North Egmont.
Is there a lookout?
Yes. From the top junction, continue up the Holly Hut Track for about 10 minutes to a popular lookout with views of the mountain and the coast.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC’s rule for this track is No Dogs.
Is parking available?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC said parking at the North Egmont road end was limited until December 2026 while the new visitor centre is built. DOC recommends carpooling or using a shuttle.
Is the track open?
It was open when we checked on 18 October 2026, with no DOC alerts. Check the DOC page for current alerts before you go.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.