So it turns out that the government wants to ensure that this mountain is protected for future generations! 💾 Save this for your next adventure ✨️ This National Park has a unique circular boundary because, in 1881, a radius of 9.6 kilometers was drawn from the summit of Mount Taranaki to preserve the native forest. The surrounding land has been converted to farmland, creating the perfect circle you can see today. 🅿️ Park at the end of Mangorei Road (or get a shuttle!) and walk up Mangorei Track 🥾 About 4-5 hours round trip, following a well-maintained boardwalk all the way up the mountain (and it’s not too steep, surprisingly!) 🐶🚫 Dogs are not allowed in National Parks 📍 Pouākai Tarns Pro tip: stay at the Pouākai Hut for a night or two as it’s only a 15-minute walk from the tarns! This will give you multiple opportunities to catch those perfect sunrise/sunset conditions. #connecttonature #taranakihiking #visitnewzealand #bucketlisttravel #hikingnewzealand