Mountaineering

Mt. Taranaki Guided Tours. Mt. Taranaki is a potentially perilous mountain to climb; unpredictable weather and steep upper slopes with sheer bluffs and ice are an extremely dangerous combination. For summit climbs in winter, use a local guide like Ian McAlpine of Mt. Taranaki Guided Tours. McAlpine—who has made more than 1,800 ascents of Mt. Taranaki and climbed in Nepal, India, and Antarctica—leads individuals and groups. He also organizes other one-day and multiday walks that explore the park's forests, waterfalls, gorges, old lava flows, and alpine plants. A particular favorite is the Pouakai Crossing, which encompasses volcanic, wetland, and forest landscapes. Summit-climb rates depend on the season and group size. 417–042; www.mttaranakiguidedtours.co.nz.