Hiking in mid February. Superb !!! There are a lot of steps, and the end of the circuit is a bit difficult with a lot of slippery roots. But what beautiful views on this magnificent Taranaki !!! one of the most beautiful hikes of our vacation in NZ. Done in one day (9h30 walk).

Beautiful magic forest, spectacular views of Taranaki and the tasman sea, lots of birds, a tarn and swamp aaand a LOT of steps (I would recomment poles to help your knees out) but it’s not technically difficult. It was really muddy when we walked it so proper boots are recommended. We did it in two days which was perfect, doing the whole circuit in one day is only for really fit people I would say. Enjoy the beautiful hut experience whilst you‘re tramping!

At the moment part of the track is closed due to a landslide. There is a 2 hour detour. We did everything together in one day. Is hard, but doable. And do not always trust the yellow signposts for the curcuit. At one point it is wrong.

For people who are not experienced with long walks, it is the absolute horror! We could not do it within 8 hours and had to turn around. Unfortunately, we have not seen the Mirror Lake, but it was not worth it! Even the way back became a challenge. So if you are not experienced since it is not recommended! If so, one night stays in the cabin, but even thats really hard

Absolutely possible in one day. Great hike with great vantage points on the surrounding area and of course Mount Taranaki. On this walk you also get to the small lake where you can take great pictures with the water reflection of Mount Taranaki. However, it is rarely windless.

We ran the circuit in 8 hours and are actually well fit and like to hike! Even with two hours break, it does not necessarily make sense to stay in one of the huts unless you want to see a beautiful sunset or sunrise;) So absolutely feasible as a day hike if, above all, weather conditions are normal! Very worthwhile :)

Highly recommended! For me one of the best walks. If you're somewhat fit and have some alpine experience you can do the walk in two days. In that case I would recommend going to Pouakai Hut, to stay there for the night and to do the rest on the next day. Buy a ticket for the hut at the iSite and ask how the weather will be.

The walk was very nice, but also exhausting. The weather was bad when I did it. It was raining, storming and was foggy. I was glad I brought gloves. The two huts are nice and large and there is an oven available. You should bring a sleeping bag if you want to stay there over night.

Absolutley an amazing walk with stunning view! Maybe even better then the mount taranaki summit! Beautiful sunset, sunrise and lots of stars by night! Must do!

The Poukai Circuit almost is a must do, it's fantatstic even in bad weather. If you want to avoid the hut, you can also do the track in one day, if you start early enough and have the necessary level of fitness. It took us 7 hours.