Govett Leap Walk

A spectacular 1.5-hour walking trail in Egmont National Park featuring a 50-meter waterfall and lush native forest. It's one of the most accessible and rewarding day walks in the region with excellent photo opportunities.

Things to do

• Govett Leap Waterfall — View the spectacular 50-meter cascade at the trail's highlight, best photographed in morning light when mist catches the sun.
• Native Beech Forest Walk — Explore the lush podocarp and beech forest canopy along the trail, featuring moss-covered trees and native bird calls.
• Photography at the Lookout — Capture landscape shots of the Taranaki ranges and forest valleys from the vantage points along the upper trail sections.
• Birdwatching — Listen for and spot native species including fantails, tuis, and bellbirds while walking through the regenerating forest.
• Swimming in Wai Falls Creek — Cool off in the natural pools near the base of the falls during warmer months, though water is cold year-round.
• Picnic at the Summit Rest Area — Enjoy lunch at designated rest spots overlooking the forest with views toward Mount Egmont on clear days.

Food to try

• Taranaki Dairy Ice Cream — Stop at local ice cream shops in nearby New Plymouth for creamy treats made from regional milk before or after your walk.
• Whitebait Fritters — Sample this regional delicacy at New Plymouth cafés—delicate seasonal treat featuring local whitebait caught from Taranaki streams.
• Venison from Local Farms — Visit farm shops or restaurants serving Taranaki-raised venison, a protein staple of the region's rural food culture.
• Flat White Coffee — Grab a quality flat white at New Plymouth's specialty cafés before heading to the walk—the Kiwi coffee culture is strong here.
• Native Horopito (Pepper Tree) Tea — Find herbal teas made from native plants at local markets and visitor centers, celebrating Taranaki's indigenous flora.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Māori Sacred Sites — Mount Egmont (Taranaki) is sacred to local Māori iwi; approach the landscape with cultural respect and learn the Māori names of features.
• Leave No Trace Etiquette — Taranaki outdoor culture emphasizes protecting pristine native forests—pack out all rubbish and stay on marked tracks to preserve this taonga (treasure).
• Weather Preparedness is Essential — Locals always carry rain gear and extra layers as Taranaki weather changes rapidly; being unprepared is seen as unwise in this mountainous region.
• Community Connection at Egmont Village — The small Egmont settlement near the park maintains a strong community spirit—locals appreciate visitors who engage respectfully with the village and its facilities.