Lake Mangamahoe New Zealand
A picturesque lake offering iconic reflections of Mount Taranaki, surrounded by native bush and walking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Lake Mangamahoe New Zealand
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque lake offering iconic reflections of Mount Taranaki, surrounded by native bush and walking trails.
"Great opportunity to get some really good photos of Mount Taranaki."
🎯 Easy Access Viewpoint
A 5-minute walk from the end-of-road carpark leads to a fantastic lookout for Mt Taranaki views.
📸 Photography Paradise
Ideal for capturing Mount Taranaki reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Taranaki Lookout
Short walk from the carpark at the end of the road
The iconic, easy-access viewpoint offering stunning reflections of Mount Taranaki on clear days.
+1
Lakeside Walking Trails
Circumference of Lake Mangamahoe
Wander through native bush, enjoy peaceful moments by the water, and discover hidden picnic spots.
Picnic Areas with Japanese Cedars
Near the lake edge
Relax and enjoy a meal amidst unique Japanese cedar trees, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Capture the Iconic Mount Taranaki Reflection
+1Embrace the Nature Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy Access Viewpoint
A 5-minute walk from the end-of-road carpark leads to a fantastic lookout for Mt Taranaki views.
📸 Photography Paradise
Ideal for capturing Mount Taranaki reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of spots with tables and benches for a relaxing picnic by the water.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the walking trails; they offer a deeper nature experience than just the lookout.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy Access Viewpoint
A 5-minute walk from the end-of-road carpark leads to a fantastic lookout for Mt Taranaki views.
📸 Photography Paradise
Ideal for capturing Mount Taranaki reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of spots with tables and benches for a relaxing picnic by the water.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the walking trails; they offer a deeper nature experience than just the lookout.
🦆 Wildlife Encounters
Enjoy the company of ducks and swans on the lake during your visit.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Please take all your rubbish with you to respect this beautiful natural treasure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Mangamahoe for its stunning views of Mount Taranaki, especially the iconic reflections on calm days. The free access, easy walking trails, and pleasant picnic spots make it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Some note the lack of nearby amenities like toilets or cafes, emphasizing the need to come prepared.
"Very nice place to enjoy a walk into the nature, the lake, the forest, and to the cute duckies and swans. We enjoyed a nice afternoon walk and some fun times with the cute animals."
Tess Lin
"Great place for a waterside walk and great opportunities for photographing Mount Taranaki. There are picnic spots around the lake with fixed tables and benches. Access is free,"
Bernard Savage
"Worth a trip. Free access. Great opportunity to get some really good photos of Mount Taranaki. If you don’t want to walk far you can drive to the end of the lake and view from a look out otherwise allow a couple of hours to walk around the lake. Plenty of places to enjoy a kai (picnic). please take all your rubbish with you and respect our Taonga (treasure)."
Mike M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Mangamahoe is easily accessible by car from New Plymouth. It's a scenic drive, and the lake is well-signposted. Many visitors drive to the carpark at the end of the road for quick access to the main lookout.
Public transport options to Lake Mangamahoe are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or consider a taxi or rideshare service from New Plymouth.
You can drive to a carpark at the end of the road for a short, easy walk to a lookout point. For a more immersive experience, explore the various walking trails around the lake.
While close to Egmont National Park and offering views of Mount Taranaki, Lake Mangamahoe itself is a distinct area known for its recreational opportunities.
Yes, there are mountain biking trails in the forest surrounding Lake Mangamahoe, making it a popular spot for cyclists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Lake Mangamahoe is completely free. You can enjoy the walks, views, and picnic areas without any admission cost.
Lake Mangamahoe is open to visitors year-round, from dawn till dusk. There are no specific opening or closing times.
No booking is required to visit Lake Mangamahoe. It's a public space that you can access at your leisure.
The main restriction is to respect the natural environment. Visitors are asked to take all their rubbish with them and be mindful of the wildlife.
Yes, you can try fly fishing from the fishing jetty, but you will need a freshwater fishing license.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy waterside walks, photography of Mount Taranaki, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the surrounding forest trails.
The main lookout offers iconic reflections of Mount Taranaki. The lake edge and various points along the walking trails also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.
Toilets are located further down the road from the main picnic area. It's advisable to check their availability or plan accordingly.
No, the walk to the main lookout from the end-of-road carpark is very easy and takes only about five minutes.
Swimming is generally not recommended in Lake Mangamahoe due to its use as a water source and potential for cold temperatures. Stick to walking and enjoying the views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Lake Mangamahoe. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
There are several picnic spots around the lake with fixed tables and benches, some featuring unique Japanese cedar trees.
Pack your favorite food, drinks, and any picnic essentials. Remember to take all your rubbish with you afterwards.
The nearest dining options will be in New Plymouth, which offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and eateries.
There are no designated barbecue facilities at Lake Mangamahoe. Picnicking is the primary way to enjoy food at the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for capturing Mount Taranaki's reflection. Clear mornings are also excellent for this iconic shot.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and reflections. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water.
While some videos show drone footage, it's always best to check current local regulations regarding drone usage in natural reserves and near water bodies.
The primary draw is the reflection of Mount Taranaki. The surrounding native bush, lakeside flora, and the water itself also make for beautiful shots.
Yes, the main lookout point, just a short walk from the carpark, provides excellent photographic opportunities of Mount Taranaki.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The main lookout offers a quick and easy way to get that postcard-perfect shot, but don't hesitate to explore the walking trails for unique compositions. The changing light throughout the day offers diverse photographic opportunities, from soft morning hues to dramatic sunset colors. 🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Capturing the Iconic Mount Taranaki Reflection
+1 Photographers often recommend using a polarizing filter to deepen the blues of the sky and water, and a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the mountain and its reflection. While the main lookout is convenient, exploring other parts of the lake can offer unique perspectives. The lakeside trails provide opportunities for framing the mountain through trees or capturing its reflection from different angles. Be patient; the reflection can change with the wind and light conditions.
Remember to check the weather forecast for clear skies, as clouds can obscure the mountain and prevent the reflection from forming. Exploring the Nature Trails and Wildlife
As you walk, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. The lake is home to various bird species, including ducks and swans, which often frequent the waters and can be a delight to observe.
Picnicking and Relaxation
Some of the picnic areas are particularly noteworthy for their unique features, such as the presence of large Japanese cedar trees, which create a distinctive atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit