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An ice-encrusted Syme Hut and long drop. Photo: Peter Laurenson

Syme Hut, Egmont National Park

Taranaki Hikes

Peter Laurenson

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Peter Laurenson

A tramper, occasional climber, photographer, editor and writer, Peter has been adventuring for more than 30 years.

Peter Laurenson

By Peter Laurenson

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Peter Laurenson

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Peter Laurenson

A tramper, occasional climber, photographer, editor and writer, Peter has been adventuring for more than 30 years.

Peter Laurenson

By Peter Laurenson

Overnighting at Syme Hut in winter

Whether you intend to climb to Mt Taranaki’s 2518m summit or just settle for Fanthams Peak (1966m), spending a night at Syme Hut, perched high above the Taranaki lowlands, is just reward for your efforts. I have overnighted at Syme five times and each trip has been blessed with exclusive occupancy. The hut is a […]

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Peter Laurenson

About the author

Peter Laurenson

Peter is a tramper, occasional climber, photographer, editor and writer. His adventures, spanning 30+ years, come together on his website ‘OccasionalClimber’. Richmond-based, Peter is editor of FMC’s Backcountry and has published three books: Occasional Climber (2013) and Khumbu (2021) and Aotearoa Light (2025).

More From Trips

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Manson, Kāweka Forest Park

Otamatapaio Hut, Oteake Conservation Park

Farewell Spit Walk, Farewell Spit Nature Reserve

McKerrow, Remutaka Forest Park

Sudden Valley Bivouac, Arthur’s Pass National Park

Triangle Hut, Ruahine Forest Park

Mt Technical tarns, Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve

Mt Somers via Te Kiekie Route, Hakatere Conservation Park

Green Point Hut, Gamack Conservation Area

Leaning Lodge, Rock and Pillar Conservation Area

Tahurangi Lodge circuit, Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki

Waipu Cove to Mangawhai Heads, Northland

Globe Hill Track, Victoria Forest Park

Tapuae-o-Uenuku, Inland Kaikoura Range

Harris Saddle and Routeburn Falls Hut, Mount Aspiring National Park

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