New Plymouth District Council says visitors planning a trip up the mountain this summer will need to plan ahead so they can enjoy their day out without traffic frustration.
The Council is erecting signs on Egmont Road with reminders that car parking is limited at the top car park.
“We’re anticipating this summer to be even more challenging than in previous years,” says Council Manager Delivery, Sustainability and Infrastructure, Jessica Stokes.
“There are always more cars than available parking spaces at the top of Egmont Road in summer but due to construction of the new visitor centre, there’ll be fewer parking spaces than usual this season.
“Even on an ordinary sunny summer’s day, particularly on weekends, the car park would be full by dawn.”
Council is encouraging people to look at other park entrances this season, such as the Mangorei Track at the top of Mangorei Road, visiting the swingbridge from the Pembroke Road car park, or Dawson Falls at the top of Manaia Road.
“If you can’t get up the mountain, remember that there are so many other outdoor areas to explore, such as Lake Mangamahoe, the Meeting of the Waters, Pukeiti Gardens and Lucy’s Gully. Taranaki has heaps of outdoor options to enjoy,” said Ms Stokes.
To assist with the increased demand on car parking and the challenges of this site, the Department of Conservation (DOC) is implementing a freedom camping ban at the top of Egmont Road.
DOC will continue to provide for freedom campers on Taranaki Maunga but is prohibiting freedom camping in North Taranaki Visitor Centre car parks from this Friday.
Council signs on Egmont Road will be in place from this Friday until early February.
