Though it’s a fairly steep tramp, the trip to Syme Hut is relatively easy thanks to staircases that start shortly after passing Hooker Shelter, almost on the halfway mark.

Kapuni Lodge is the next landmark and is sited just above the bushline at 1429m.

From the lodge there are sweeping views of the central North Island.

The wooden staircase continues above the lodge until scree and rocks take over from the tussock landscape.

The track from the end of the staircase climbs directly up to Fanthams Peak and Syme Hut.

The hut, which sleeps 10, is a good stepping off point for the climb to the summit of Taranaki, 550m above.