May to November

Introduction

Find out hiking Fantham Peak from May to November.

You need special skills and preparation to climb Fathams Peak from May to November/December. There are increased risks from snow, ice, avalanche terrain, bad weather and sub-zero temperatures.

Track standard: Route

Track surface: Track is covered in snow and very icy in sections. Track is not marked.

Suitable for: People with mountaineering skills, equipment and experience. You must:

  • have the equipment and skills to prevent a slide on icy terrain
  • know where avalanches are a risk and be able to rescue someone if an avalanche occurs
  • have the clothing for sub-zero temperatures and be able to survive if the weather gets worse.

Dress for cold, windy and icy conditions

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Conditions can change quickly. Layer your clothes to trap warm air in and keep cold wind out. Start with a base layer of polypropylene/merino, add an insulation layer of fleece/wool and finish with a waterproof shell layer.

Expect ice on the track between April and November/December. A helmet, crampons and ice axe are essential, as is competency using them. The main cause of death on Mount Taranaki is slipping on ice.

Be avalanche alert

Avalanches are a hazard. Know the avalanche forecast.

Take an avalanche transceiver, avalanche probe and snow shovel, and be competent using them.

Take these essentials

  • Plenty of drinking water and food
  • Waterproof jacket and pants, hat, gloves, sunscreen, and warm, layered clothing
  • Sturdy tramping or mountaineering boots
  • Crampons, ice axe and helmet
  • Avalanche transceiver, avalanche probe and snow shovel
  • Mobile phone, personal locator beacon (PLB), head torch and spare batteries
  • Map, compass and/or GPS

There is nowhere in Taranaki to hire alpine equipment – bring your own or hired alpine equipment.

Make a plan

Talk with someone at the Egmont National Park Visitor Centre who knows the current conditions.

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