DOC track
Pukatea Ridge Track
11.6km2 hrIntermediate
Alerts
Notice
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
This is a well-marked track through established bush with valley views and large kauri trees. This track connects with the Waipapa River Track.
Elevation
Climb
993m
Drop
613m
Highest point
396m
Lowest point
11m
Move over the chart to read the height.
Forest Water
Longest open stretch
210m
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
The Pukatea Ridge Track begins 7.5 km along the Pirau Ridge and descends to the lower Waipapa River Track leading to Forest Pools.
Getting there
The Puketī Kauri Forest is signposted from SH10 south of Kaeo and north of Waipapa. The Forest can also be reached from SH1, north of Ōkaihau.
Take care when you leave the State Highway as you will be travelling on unsealed roads.
Know before you go
- High degree of skill and experience, as well as route-finding abilities required.
- No fires due to risks to wildlife.
- Carry warm, waterproof clothing, and food and drink, even on short walks.
- Stout shoes or walking boots are advisable.
- You may wish to boil water from the streams before drinking.
- For longer tramps NZTopo50 maps are essential.
- Leaving vehicles at road ends over night is not advisable due to the risk of theft.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track