Waimoku Track

From Lucy's Gully the Waimoku Track leads up through forest to the Patuhā Trig (682 m). Here you get great views along the coast and up to Taranaki Maunga. The last 100m section of track to the trig is a scramble up an exposed rocky section which some people may find a challenge.

An easier alternative route up to the trig is via the Davies Track.

From the trig return on the same track back down to the car park. Or turn left onto Sefton Ridge Track which will also return you to Lucy’s Gully just below the Waimoku Track entrance.

Note: Many of the Kaitake Range tracks are overgrown and have small tree windfalls on them. Expect longer travel times.

The Kaitake Range is the backdrop to the township of Oakura. From New Plymouth, follow Devon Street West south, continuing on coastal State Highway 45, 5 km past Oakura. Turn left at Ahuahu Road to get to Lucy’s Gully.

Be prepared for changeable weather

Taranaki Maunga has changeable and unpredictable weather. Check the forecast and carry enough clothing and equipment to ensure you are able to cope with any type of weather, at any time of the year. The rivers and tributaries are not always bridged and some of these can flood at any time of the year.

Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki weather forecast – NIWA website

Pack warm and waterproof clothing

Be ready for any weather by packing a waterproof jacket and plenty of warm layers. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes (tramping boots are recommended).

• What to pack for a day trip
• What to pack for an overnight trip

The lowland coastal forest of the Kaitake Range is a very different forest than that found in the rest of the Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki. The trees here are not found in the higher areas. There are nikau, titoke, kohekohe, and puriri trees. You’ll find pukeatea and karaka trees and see silver fern and a range of smaller plants.

A stand of Californian redwood trees, planted in the 1930s are protected by a special dispensation in the Egmont National Park Management Plan. Other exotic trees planted at the same time are slowly being removed to allow regeneration of native species.