Goblin Forest

Deep within Egmont National Park, the Goblin Forest (officially known as the Kamahi Walk) feels like stepping into a fantasy novel. Ancient kamahi trees draped in thick mats of moss and liverworts twist into eerie, otherworldly shapes, their gnarled branches hung with pendulous mosses that drip with moisture. The forest floor is a spongy carpet of ferns and fallen leaves, and shafts of filtered light create a luminous green glow. This enchanting, short loop walk is one of New Zealand's most unique and atmospheric experiences.

Highlights & What to See

• Moss-Draped Kamahi Trees: The main draw – ancient trees so heavily cloaked in moss they look like mythical creatures, their twisted forms creating a surreal canopy.
• Goblin-like Root Systems: Exposed, contorted roots that writhe across the path, resembling gnarled fingers or goblin figures (hence the name).
• Lush Ferns and Epiphytes: A dense understorey of native ferns, including the iconic silver fern, and epiphytic plants clinging to trunks.
• Birdlife: Listen for the bell-like calls of tūī and the cheeky chatter of fantails (pīwakawaka) flitting through the trees.
• Mount Taranaki Views: On clear days, glimpses of the volcanic peak punctuate the green canopy – a stark contrast to the mossy gloom.

Suggested Time to Spend

The Goblin Forest loop is a short, easy walk – allow 30–45 minutes to complete the 1.5 km circuit at a leisurely pace. However, photographers and nature lovers will want an hour or more to soak in the atmosphere, frame the perfect shot, and simply stand in awe. It's best visited in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the moss glows. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Dawson Falls or a summit attempt of Mount Taranaki for a full day in the park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• New Plymouth – the vibrant coastal city with its excellent museums, galleries, and the iconic Len Lye Centre, plus the 13-km Coastal Walkway.
• Mount Taranaki – the majestic volcano itself, offering challenging summit hikes, the Pouakai Crossing (a stunning alpine traverse), and the Pouakai Tarns with their mirror reflections.
• Egmont National Park – the entire park is a wonderland of waterfalls (Dawson Falls, Bells Falls), volcanic landscapes, and well-marked trails like the around-the-mountain circuit.

Please check official sources for current details.