After a slow Xmas day, we packed up and headed up North Egmont. Leaving at 10.00 pm with heavy packs due to camera gear, we trudged our way up, having never done this common route.

We arrived at 2.00 am and, at about 3 pm located a nice flat spot to sleep for a few hours. At 0500 hrs, the sky was red, and we were blessed with a wonderful sunrise. We never went to the summit, however, was close-ish. So many people came up, and it was a busy place. We did not stand on the summit. Our choice and in respect for local Iwi and culture. It was liberating to do so. Although not far below, the debate may be what is too close. Some request 100m. We did not do that. However, there were many people there that do go to the summit - Europeans, kiwis etc. The issue could be contentious among people.

Descending after faffing around got us back at the van by 10.30 am

Key to this journey has been exploring what it means to be a Pakeha and respecting Maori on a mountain. These may be very different perspectives. Being allowed to be on Taranaki is a privilege, yet the discussion we had was not standing on the head of the sacred mountain. Some may argue we should not be there at all, some say we can go, and some say we are okay to be on the summit as long as we do not eat there. Either way, it is a learning journey, and coming to a compromise may be the solution where there is conscious respect given in your actions. I think it is important to talk about it. Not just do it cause someone said to, and consider your actions, how that affects others and what your choice are