Dawson Falls Visitors Centre

Dawson Falls Visitors Centre is situated in the Egmont National Park, on the slopes of Mt Taranaki in New Zealand's North Island. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the park and its many attractions. The visitors centre is small but informative, providing visitors with information about the conservation areas in the park, as well as the Department of Conservation's (DOC) 14,000 km of tracks, 10 Great Walks, and network of 950 huts and 324 campsites.

The centre also has a small gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items.

One of the main attractions in the area is the 18 m high Dawson Falls, also known as Te Rere o Noke, which is one of New Zealand's oldest operational power generators. Visitors can take a short walk to the waterfall, which is suitable for all fitness levels, and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. For those looking for a longer walk, there are several walking tracks in the area that lead through goblin forest to lava-formed pools that are good for a dip. These tracks are suitable for children and have varying levels of difficulty, making them accessible to all visitors.

The visitors centre is located on Manaia Road, Kaponga, and is easily accessible by car. It is a scenic 30-minute drive from Stratford, Taranaki. Visitors should check the opening hours of the centre before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season. In summary, Dawson Falls Visitors Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Egmont National Park in Taranaki, New Zealand. With its informative visitors centre, picturesque waterfall, and scenic walking tracks, it offers something for everyone, regardless of fitness level or age.