In sight of Whakapapa Village and Hauhungatahi. Photo NC.

After Taranaki Falls the main (upper) track continues through tussock. Beyond (south) Whakapapa Village the vegetation changes markedly, from almost exclusively tussock, to an almost continuous forest cover from lowland up to the tree line (partly visible here beyond the Grand Chateau and on the lower slopes of Hauhungatahi). Most of it is mountain beech, with the native mountain cedar kaikawaka in places. Podocarp forest occupies some lowland areas, especially around Hauhungatahi.
Hauhungatahi is a prominent landmark, visible from many places in the whole western quarter of the park. Although displaying the remains of an early and outlying eruptive centre, it is not an individual volcano.