A WALKER'S GUIDE

Free Copy or download at www.visit..info 9th Edition Okau

Pukearuhe 7

3 16 Mi Welcome, haere mai W mi

a Ri i ve ta Ur r Taranaki boasts magnificent gardens, the iconic Taranaki Maunga, a ra en W u R i R a iv i iw e ve spectacular national park, three marine reserves, iron sand beaches h r r a k Contents a fringed with great surf, wonderful lakes, a vibrant arts and cultural scene, ih 8 o Waitara R Brixton iv Bell Block EGMONT NATIONAL PARK gourmet cafēs and restaurants, fantastic museums e Okoki page r 9 and galleries and a range of activities for those with a 1 Pouakai Crossing / Circuit 6

Ta 10 sense of fun and adventure. pu ae 11 Hillsborough 2 York Loop Track 7 S 12 tr ea m 13 d 3A A network of walking tracks links these many attractions n 3 Potaema Track 8 a l 3 p U and offers a unique perspective of Taranaki’s P 14 l 4 y Taranaki Maunga Summit Track 9 m Ōākura o 15 legendary landscape. For more information u Hurworth t h Waitui URF 5 Wilkies Pools Loop Track 10

IGHWA R H45Y Koro o a about the region head to d Tarata 6 Sto 20 Kapuni Loop Track 11 ny River U Te Henui www.visit.taranaki.info. pp Inglewood e d r Korito a Pohokura Pi o to R ne O R et Kaimiro m Puniho xf o re a o ad St h rd n r Ratapiko115 Pu R o u Whitecliffs Walkway n o gt D ih ad in d 7 13 W o rr a are R a o Wai Pingao Stream Loop a R o C R iv ad Egmont t er Warea n o Tariki Tumahu m National g Te Wera 8 Waitara Heritage Trail 14 E d 1 a Kupe Huiroa o R Newall Park y North Egmont re W 4 r Tuna Strathmore 9 Mangati Walkway / Hickford Park Pathway 15

Su Te Popo i

Pungarehu r e itata Stream m 2 Wa P u Taranaki Maunga 10 New Plymouth Coastal Walkway 16 arihak

a Road R Midhirst o

a East Egmont d 5 Wharehuia 11 Te Henui Walkway 17 6 Pe 3 Pembroke Dawson Falls mbr Douglas oke Ro 43 eam ad ereere Str i Road 12 Punga garik M 17 Huatoki Walkway 18 N a n Stratford a 18 Toko i a Cardiff Stream R 19 Rātapihipihi Scenic Reserve henua o Otuw ad a 13 19 Ro d Nikau Loop Track ta Oaonui ha aw Mahoe Finnerty Road m Ar i Strea d aonu a Rowan O o d Ngaere 14 Meeting of the Waters / Araheke Bush Walk 20 R Roa ake ia Makaka a Ōpun Ih Mangatoki 15 Lake Mangamahoe 21 Taungatara Te Kiri ham Road Elt am Road d Elth a Eltham d o a Awatuna R Riverlea o STRATFORD DISTRICT

g d R Reference Map a n 24 21 i o a i R t 3 r i a s e a iaua Riv ik n Lake a t a W a H 16 Mount Damper Falls Track 23 P Kapuni M Rotokare d a o d R a Skeet Road Pihama o Mangawhero 17 Stratford Heritage Walkway 24 o Te Roti

R

e

O a

URF o IGHWA r H45Y u 18 Carrington Walkway 25 A tream paeiti S Lake Waipae Oeo Otakeho 19 Cardiff Centennial Walkway 26 Manaia Normanby Rotorangi 25 Kaupokonui 20 Otunahe Scenic Reserve Walkway 27 Inaha Tokaora ream onui St Kaupok Hawera r22 Rive oro 21 Ōpunake Walkway 29 gong Wain 23 Mokoia Ōhawe Beach to 22 30 Waihi Beach Coastal Walkway

er Manutahi Riv 23 Nowell’s Lakes Walkway 31 ahoe Tang 3 24 Walkway 32 Kakaramea 25 Lake Rotorangi Walkway 33

am 26 Pātea River Historic Walkway 34 Stre Cover image: Taranaki Maunga at dusk reflected in the Pouakai Tarns, Jeremy Beckers. eka Wair To capture this shot for yourself, see Pouakai Crossing/Circuit on page 6. Waverley 26 Whenuakura River Waitotara Things to know before you go Egmont National Park

Walking is a great way to explore Taranaki. You can safely walk many tracks without any specialist clothing, equipment or skills. However, if you want to attempt the moderate or According to Māori legend, challenging walks in this guide, good planning, preparation and in some cases mountaineering Taranaki Maunga once stood experience is essential. Follow these tips to help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable walk. in the centre of the alongside Ruapehu, Allow time – Plan your route and allow enough time to get around changing Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. tides and daylight hours. Check with the Department of Conservation (DoC) Taranaki fell in love with for current track conditions. pretty Mount Pīhanga and Tell someone – Make sure someone knows your plans battled with Tongariro for her so they can raise an alarm if you haven’t returned or log your trip on heart. After losing, Taranaki www.adventuresmart.nz was banished to the west, Know your limits – Adventure within your physical limits and experience. carving the Whanganui River in his wake. Go prepared – Make sure you have enough food, equipment, clothing and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario and changing conditions in These days the 2518m volcanic weather and temperature. Take appropriate means of communication. peak, which last erupted Look after the environment – Take only photographs and leave only in 1755, offers more than footprints. Do not light fires. Respect plants, wildlife and other explorers. Stop 200km of walking tracks for the spread of freshwater pests by cleaning and drying all wet items before outdoor adventures through crossing waterways. untouched bush, clear Be sensible – Don’t walk alone, in an emergency call 111, avoid alpine, coastal streams, mystical ngāhere/ or river walks when bad weather is forecast. Your safety is your responsibility. forests and breath-taking views. Be respectful – Taranaki Maunga and the surrounding landscapes have great spiritual significance to local Māori. Please be respectful of our cultural Tracks range from 15-minute heritage when out and about. family-friendly walks to the three-to-five day around the Drone flying - All aircraft activities (including flying drones) on or over public conservation lands and waters must have a concession or authorisation from mountain hike. Department of Conservation: www.doc.govt.nz . Caution: When exploring Please check if the walk is dog or cycle-friendly, if you are planning to take Taranaki Maunga, be your dog or use your bike for any of the routes. prepared for the rapidly changing weather conditions Some routes have sections that aren’t suitable for cycling; take note of CYCLING (see ‘Things to know RESTRICTED signage on each walkway. before you go’ on page 4). WARNING: The maps in this booklet are a guide only and are not suitable for Contact the Department of navigation. For greater detail refer to topographical maps available from the Conservation or your closest Department of Conservation – contact details on back cover. i-SITE for advice before you attempt the more challenging tracks.

4 www.visit.taranaki.info Beckers Jeremy Egmont National Egmont Park

1 Pouakai Crossing/Circuit 2 York Loop Track Length: 18.4km, 7–9 hour crossing Length: 7km, 3 hours or 23.4km, 2–3 day circuit Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging Location: Starts at the top of York Rd, Location: Starts at the Midhirst, Taranaki (A) North Egmont Visitor Centre, 2679 Egmont Rd, Taranaki. (A) Jeremy Beckers Jeremy DOC

◀ Pouakai Hut has moved to online booking only for The Pouakai Crossing and Pouakai and SH3 The York Loop Track follows part

To Stratford overnight stays. To book a bunk, pre-register and Circuit display centuries of volcanic of the old Egmont Branch Railway book at www.doc.govt.nz. Hut tickets are no longer activity from the towering Dieffenbach Line, which was constructed in 1901 valid here but can be used at other huts in the park. cliffs (B)to the boomerang slip (C) to provide metal for the roads and

and the red water of the Kokowai rocks for . Stream (D) caused by manganese oxide oozing from the earth. The quarry stopped operating in the late 1920s and you will come The track takes you past Holly Hut (E) Surrey Rd across many of the tell-tale remains Rd and through the fragile Ahukawakawa along the track, such as the site of Wetlands (F), to Pouakai Hut (G) and York Rd I old bunk houses and cottages (B) the picture-perfect Pouakai Tarns (H). and an old crusher site (C) where a After the Pouakai Hut, Pouakai large retaining wall remains. A Crossing walkers head down the stairs B C to Mangorei Rd. The Pouakai Circuit Continue over the footbridge and returns back to North Egmont Visitor follow the old railway embankments G Centre via Henry Peak, ngāhere/forests, and water pipeline to view a semi- H Pouakai Circuit wetlands and a large swing-bridge over operational sand trap (D). A little the River. further on, there are two optional D ▶ side tracks that lead to the remains F For a third, shorter option, you can of a river quarry and a middle To Egmont Village walk from the top of Mangorei Rd (I) to and SH3 Bells Falls ■ Pouakai Hut and the Pouakai Tarns and quarry. The second middle quarry E back (5 hours return). was closed after flooding and a large Egmont Rd pile of spoiled rock can still be found Pouakai Crossing A For more information, contact DOC D there. (see back cover). E C Following the main route, you will B – if hiking the Pouakai Warning come across a footbridge and later a Crossing, you will need to organise large clearing known as the transfers. Unbridged streams may be Foot Station (E). ■ Taranaki Maunga Summit impassable after heavy rain. There are other hikes in the vicinity that aren’t For more information, contact DOC 1000m 500m included in this map. (see back cover).

6 www.visit.taranaki.info EGMONT NATIONAL PARK 7 Egmont National Egmont Park

3 Potaema Track 4 Taranaki Maunga Length: 0.6km, 15–20 minutes Summit Track

Difficulty: Easy Length: 14km, 8–12 hours return

Location: Starts at Potaema picnic area, Difficulty: Challenging 3km from the Egmont National Park boundary on Pembroke Rd, Location: Starts at the Stratford (A) North Egmont Visitor Centre, 2679 Egmont Rd, Taranaki. (A) Kay Davies Beckers Jeremy

▶ A wheelchair/pushchair-friendly Parking at North Egmont Road end is limited during This summer-only climb is the most track, Potaema is the most summer. DOC suggest you arrange a shuttle or start spectacular and adventurous in Taranaki accessible of the lowland mires from the Stratford Plateau carpark and hike across the and is not to be taken lightly. Be well in Egmont National Park and is skifield to Tahurangi Lodge and join the Summit Track. prepared, check weather and track

To Stratford and SH3 the perfect short walk for anyone conditions and book a guide. The track wanting to encounter the beauty features ever-changing views as you of Taranaki Maunga without ascend through the vegetation zones committing to a hike. from montane forest to scoria and rock in summer and snow and ice in winter. It has the greatest variety of ▶ vegetation, from flowering plants to After passing a historic camphouse (B), To Egmont Village you’ll climb the tough Puffer track (C) hanging moss and ferns dwarfed by and SH3 to the TV translator and Tahurangi Lodge a towering forest (B). Native trees (D). From here you’ll witness spectacular to look out for include rimu, rātā, Egmont Rd views of Taranaki and the Tasman Sea. kāmahi, kahikatea, mountain tōtara, Head through Hongi’s Valley (E), up pokaka and a few pahautea or A B many steps onto loose scoria slopes, then mountain cedar. These trees thrive up a rock lava flow called the Lizard (F). in the rich fertile conditions. Climb the steep slope to reach the You’ll also come across the crater (G) and summit rocks. Potaema Wetlands (C), which are Pembroke Rd Please respect the spiritual significance to teeming with native manu/birds and Māori by not standing on the very highest wildlife. On clear days, the viewing point, or camping, eating or toileting in platform at the end of the track has C the summit area. magnificent views of the mountain E D A For more information, contact DOC over the wetlands. You will soon F (see back cover). understand how the track got its B G name: Potae (hat) ma (top or white). ■ Taranaki Maunga Summit Warning - please read page 4 of this book and tick off all safety precautions Potaema For more information, contact DOC C Wetlands before you go. Do not attempt this track (see back cover). if you aren’t properly prepared. Map not 500m 500m suitable for navigation.

8 www.visit.taranaki.info EGMONT NATIONAL PARK 9 Egmont National Egmont Park

5 Wilkies Pools Loop Track 6 Kapuni Loop Track Length: 2.3km, 1–1.5 hours Length: 2km, 1–1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate Difficulty: Moderate

Location: Starts at carpark 100m above Location: Starts at the Dawson Falls the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre, top of Visitor Centre, top of Manaia Rd, Manaia Rd, Kaponga (A) Kaponga (A) Rob Tucker Rob DOC

Wilkies Pools are a series of remarkable The Kapuni Loop Track follows the plunge pools formed by the scouring Kapuni Stream where alpine plant action of water-borne sand and gravel species can be found out of their on 20,000 -year-old lava. vegetation zone due to water- and The track to Wilkies Pools is accessible wind-borne seed distribution. to wheelchairs with assistance (see Listen to the stream as it drives one on map), allow around 20 minutes to of the world’s oldest continually D the Kapuni Stream where the pools are. operating generators at the Cross the bridge for another view of the Dawson Falls Power Station (B). C E pools, then return the same way. The longer loop track continues across the B Follow the southern bank of the F bridge and takes around 1–1.5 hours stream through mountain rainforest to altogether. A the top of picturesque Dawson Falls/Te Rere o Noke (C). The track explores the Goblin Forest A steep side track leads down to the (B) of twisted kāmahi trees hanging base of the waterfall (D) but a railed with ferns and mosses, to arrive at viewing point (E) on the main track Kapuni Stream (C) and the pools (D). C provides the best overall view, where Rock steps allow you to walk up beside E D you can see layers of lava, pumice, the pools to the top but take care as gravel and ash in the bluffs flanking they can be slippery. B the waterfall. The rest of the loop leads through sub-alpine scrub and montane forest Follow the loop track to the road, cross it and then enter a forest of fuchsia, past small Twin Falls (E) and Bubbling Manaia Rd Springs (F) to rock-hop across Kapuni kōtukutuku and fern. This track will Manaia Rd Stream again before returning to the lead you back to your starting point. A car park. For more information, contact To Kaponga For more information, contact DOC To Kaponga and SH3 DOC (see back cover). and SH3 (see back cover). Warning – there is no bridge across the lower section of Kapuni Stream. Warning – please exercise caution ▶ ▶ If flooded do not cross – return the when walking in the vicinity of the road 100m same way. 100m and near the waterway.

10 www.visit.taranaki.info EGMONT NATIONAL PARK 11 New Plymouth District Plymouth New

7 Whitecliffs Walkway New Plymouth Wai Pingao Stream Loop Length: 6.5km, 3–4 hours (return along beach at low tide) New Plymouth offers many Difficulty: Moderate great walking tracks. Location: Starts at the boat ramp (A) From coastal vistas to lakes, at the end of Pukearuhe Rd gardens and heritage trails, (off SH3, 6.4km north of Urenui) each walkway comes with Tucker Rob its own story, coffee spot or This walkway takes in the stunning sparkling surf beach. views including the dramatic Whitecliffs (B) and the protected In addition to the walks Parininihi Marine Reserve (C). It in this chapter, Pukekura C crosses private land and is closed for Park, with its main entrance access from 1 July–30 Sept. on Liardet St, and Tūpare From the carpark the walkway Garden on Mangorei Rd E B crosses farmland (please ensure you are also great spots for a D respect the land and close all gates Pukearuhe short walk. You will find A that you open) to Mt Davidson (D) beautifully landscaped and down through Ngāti Tama land gardens with stunning views, to the Wai Pingao Stream (E). Follow exotic plant specimens, the stream to the coast and walk great family picnic spots south along the beach to return to and historic marvels. See our Pukearuhe. Parks and Gardens Guide or ▶ Warning – for your own safety, refer to www.visit.taranaki. Pukearuhe Rd check tide times and make sure you info for more information. are back at Pukearuhe no later than This guide only gives a taste To Hamilton two hours after low tide . of the walks on offer. If you When returning along the beach, want to explore more of New please keep a safe distance from the Plymouth by foot, visit New cliffs to avoid falling rocks. Mimi Plymouth i-SITE (see back For more information, contact DOC cover) or visit (see back cover). To New Plymouth www.letsgo.org.nz. ◀

2000m

Rob Tucker Rob NEW PLYMOUTH DISTRICT 13 New Plymouth District Plymouth New

8 Waitara Heritage Trail 9 Mangati Walkway / Length: 6km, 1.5 hours Hickford Park Pathway Length: 6km, 2–2.5 hours Difficulty: Easy/Moderate Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging Location: Starts at the corner of West Quay and McLean St, Waitara (A) Location: Starts at the corner of Mangati Rd and Wanaka Tce, Bell Block (A)

Waitara has a rich history and many The Mangati Walkway and stories that are worth exploring. Hickford Park Pathway pass through Hickford Park Pathway After Waitara experienced European farmland and coastal plantings, settlement in 1841, conflict quickly offering picturesque vantage points Battiscombe Tce escalated over land rights, which and intriguing historic sites. lead to the in A Long ago, the Te Rewa Rewa land 1860–61. L was strategically chosen by historic

Cracroft St The Waitara Heritage Trail features Māori warriors in the Ngāti Tawhirikura Mangati K 16 information boards about the D Walkway hapu (community) due to well- J E Centennial Ave following points of interest: placed lookout points, access to food Coastal Walkway

Smeaton Rd resources and large flat areas for food I Te Roimata O Te Atiawa (B), The H cultivation. The Hickford Park land is Bridges of Waitara (C), carved B also of historic and cultural significance panels (D), Ruamano (E), Waitara C to Puketapu hapu and is within the Pill Box (F), The Works Wharves tribal rohe (boundary) of Te Atiawa iwi. (G), Railway Signal Box (H), River G Fords (I), Hurirapa Pā (J), The Parklands Ave The coastal portion of the reserve CameronGrey St St M Return Port (K), The Waitara Mangati Rd is made up of expansive vegetative F Blockhouse (L), Pukekohe (M), dunes, which increase in size and Railway N O West Quay E D Rose Garden (N), Waitara Railway ◀ SH3 Devon Rd height to the east. The undeveloped C

Nelson St Nelson P (O), Memorial Cenotaph (P) and Nugent St mown Hickford Park Pathway runs A B McLean St Aorangi Pā (Q). along the foreshore and provides access to the rocky beach. For more information about the Devon Rd Parris St ◀ To New Plymouth 3 Q points of interest, visit You will come across the protected Waipu www.visit.taranaki.info or contact Lagoons (C), one of the last natural spring- New Plymouth i-SITE fed wetlands in Taranaki before coming to (see back cover). Hickford Park (B), Taranaki Cycle Park ◀ To New Plymouth 3 Henwood Rd (D) and a BMX Track (E). For more information, contact New 500m 500m Plymouth i-SITE (see back cover).

14 www.visit.taranaki.info NEW PLYMOUTH DISTRICT 15 New Plymouth District Plymouth New

10 New Plymouth 11 Te Henui Walkway Coastal Walkway Length: 5.9km, up to 2 hours Length: 13km, 3–4 hours Difficulty: Easy/Moderate Difficulty: Easy Location: Starts at the Coastal Walkway by East End Reserve, Location: Ngāmotu Beach, Bayly Road (A) , New Plymouth (A) to Wills Rd, Bell Block (U) Rob Tucker Rob

3 The award-winning Coastal Walkway A Winding up from the coast, the Te Wills Rd & is an expansive sea-edge promenade Henui walkway showcases a variety of U Tiromoana CresMangati Rd Watson Devon St Smeaton Rd stretching the length of New Plymouth. native and exotic flora. There are several St S Ideal for walking, running, cycling, 3 3 access points (see on map, left), Ellesmere DevonAve Rd T skating or simply enjoying the view of picnic areas, swimming holes, a bowling Courtenay St R the dramatic west coast, the walkway is Northgate club and many hungry ducks before Mangorei Rd Q great for all ages and abilities. There are you arrive at Te Henui Cemetery (B) - Links Dr Lemon St featured in the Taranaki Garden Festival, P many access points (see on map, left), Leach St toilets, and drinking fountains along the an attractive area all year round, heavily walkway, and dogs are allowed on the B planted with trees and flowers. Warangi St O walkway if on a leash. D After the cemetery, the walkway will ■ turn into a single lane track. If you wish N Points of interest that you’ll encounter C E along the walkway: Settlers Memorial Spencer Pl to continue south to the end of the Beach St L ◀ walkway, you will need to cross both M (B), Dicky Barrett’s Grave (C), Beam To New Plymouth Nobs Line Cumberland St and the bridge, carrying L Pump Memorial (D), Kawaroa Park Sequoia Gr Te Henui Walkway▶ (E), Todd Energy Aquatic Centre (F), on over what eventually narrows to a K Hobson St Honeyfield drinking fountain (G), Len F track with a reassuring sign that you are Elliot StDevon St SH3 Awanui St going the right way. Lye's Wind Wand Sculpture (H), Puke FrankTce Wilson

Ariki (I), Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/ Timandra St Along the route, you will also pass the Len Lye Centre (J), Te Henui Bridge Puketarata Pā (C) Pukewarangi H I Windwand sites of , G J (K), Pop Up Summer Cafés (L), Fitzroy 3 Turi St Pā (D) and Parihamore Pā (F). Make Beach (M), Fitzroy Golf Club (N), Te F Morley St sure you stop and read the signboards Salcombe E Rewa Rewa Bridge (O), New Plymouth Tainui St CumberlandSt explaining the fascinating Māori history Tce Golf Club (P), The Links (Q), Waipu Oriental St in these places and at many other points Lagoons (R), Hickford Park sportsfields Coronation Ave along the walkway. You may also wish 45 (S), Taranaki Cycle Park (T). to stop and visit Te Kainga Marire (E) Hartland D & Newlyn Pl C on the way, one of only a handful of New A For more information see Bayly Rd www.visit.taranaki.info or contact Zealand’s 6-star rated gardens. New Plymouth Port ■ B New Plymouth i-SITE (see back cover). 1000m 500m For more information, contact New Durham Ave Plymouth i-SITE (see back cover).

16 www.visit.taranaki.info NEW PLYMOUTH DISTRICT 17 New Plymouth District Plymouth New

12 Huatoki Walkway 13 Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve Nikau Loop Track Length: 5km, 1.5 hours Length: 1.9km, up to 1 hour Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty: Easy Location: Starts at the Coastal Walkway by the Wind Wand, Location: Starts at the end of (A) Rātapihipihi Rd, off Cowling Rd, New Plymouth (A) DOC

The Huatoki Walkway follows the With dappled light shining through Windwand A meandering Huatoki Stream from the nīkau palms, kohekohe trees and Coastal Walkway to Tupari Reserve tawa, this lush temperate rainforest Brougham St Coronation Ave (H). The walkway darts between parks 3 walk is very photogenic. While well B Courtenay St C Leach St such as Sir Victor Davies Park (C) and graded and easy to follow, the track the Huatoki Domain (G), native bush can be steep in places, and has 45 D and roads. steps. Vivian St To New Plymouth ▶ F 3 Highlights along the way include The track descends into the valley,

Mill Rd several Māori signboards explaining crossing a stream (B) and passing a E places of cultural interest, Halamoana, small scenic waterfall (C). a sculpture by Filipe Tohi (B), an Timber was taken from this area old flour mill site (D) and the quarry a long time ago, first to build a below the former prison (E) where schooner to take goods to Sydney,

Frankley Rd prisoners used to shovel gravel onto and later to build bridges. A sharp trucks. An optional side route takes Carrington St eye may spot some of the old sawpit you to the top of Marsland Hill (F), Cowling Rd holes on either side of the track. a historic site where you can visit war memorials and a carillon that plays its Learn a little of the history of the bells on the hour from 9am–5pm. area and some interesting facts about trees and plants along Continue on the route and you will the track through a series of reach Mill Rd. Here you walk a short interpretation panels. distance up the road before re-entering A B Rātapihipihi Rd the walkway. When you get to Tupari For more information, contact DOC C Reserve, the Bendall Walk (I) is where (see back cover). you can find rare epiphytes or ‘air Brois St plants’ in the tree canopies G For more information, contact New Plymouth i-SITE (see back cover). 500m 100m H I

18 www.visit.taranaki.info NEW PLYMOUTH DISTRICT 19 New Plymouth District Plymouth New

14 Meeting of the Waters / 15 Lake Mangamahoe Araheke Bush Walk Length: 6km, 1.5–2 hours Length: 3km, 1 hour return Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty: Easy Location: Starts at the end of Lake Access Rd, off Junction Rd, New Plymouth (A) Location: Starts at the Meeting of the Waters Carpark, Waiwhakaiho Rd, New Plymouth (A) DOC

◀

Enjoy a picnic, swim in the To Hydro Rd Lake Mangamahoe is set in a 262ha Waiwhakaiho River and take a short production forest, and offers a range family-friendly walk. of walks with spectacular views of Taranaki Maunga. The Meeting of the Waters and Araheke Bush walkways combine You will see the dam (B), which into one loop track that explores turns the lake into a water a forest of native trees, ferns and catchment area for New Plymouth mosses, crossing bridges over both and a small collection of redwood A the tailrace of the Mangorei Hydro trees (C) planted in 1931. Station (B) and the Waiwhakaiho D B The track splits into two routes at River (D). Lake Access Rd the eastern side of the lake. The C The track passes TOPEC (C) an upper ridge takes you to some outdoor pursuits centre that is remarkable vantage points of used by schools and businesses of Bridle Taranaki Maunga and surrounding Zone Taranaki. farmland. The lower route is close to the water’s edge where you will see For more information contact many manu/birds and regenerating DOC or New Plymouth i-SITE D pockets of native bush. (see back cover). B

A Adjacent to the lake are dedicated d

R ◀ To New Plymouth areas for horse riding (D) and

o Hydro Rd ih C mountain biking (E). ka ha iw a 3 For more information, contact New W Plymouth i-SITE (see back cover). Mountain Bike *For mountain bike trails, visit 3 Zone www.npmtb.co.nz ◀ To New Plymouth E Junction Rd

100m 500m

20 www.visit.taranaki.info NEW PLYMOUTH DISTRICT 21 StratfordDistrict 16 Mount Damper Falls Track Stratford Length: 2km return, 40mins–1 hour Difficulty: Easy Stratford is a fascinating and picturesque district located in Location: Starts at the intersection of Okau Rd and Mangapapa Rd, Tahora, central Taranaki. Forgotten World Highway (A) Originally named Stratford- Upon-Pātea after William Tucker Rob Shakespeare’s birthplace At 74m high Mt Damper Falls (F) is one Stratford-Upon-Avon, many of the highest waterfalls in the North street names and parks are Island and has become a ‘must see’ for dedicated to the Great Bard’s travelers. plays and characters. The glockenspiel clock tower Nestled in the northern Taranaki in the middle of the town ngāhere/forests just off the Forgotten performs excerpts of Romeo World Highway, the track traverses and Juliet at 10am, 1pm, 3pm open private farmland (B) before E crossing a small bridge (C) and and 7pm daily. D F entering lowland forest. A stroller could Stratford is a gateway be pushed but it may be a little bumpy. to Taranaki Maunga and the district also includes The first viewing platform (D) the Forgotten World showcases the falls and valley, steps To Tahora and Forgotten lead on down to a second viewing Highway touring route and World Highway SH43 ▶ C platform (E), which gives a closer look Whangamomona, where you Mangapapa Rd at the falls and the plunge pool at the can easily spend a few days A exploring the saddles, tracks B bottom. and railway line. Both water and cliff hazards are Stratford is also home to present, so do not deviate from the award-winning Hollard track. Gardens, which feature an For more information contact DOC or easy walk through extensive Okau Rd Stratford i-SITE (see back cover). gardens and native bush. 3 Please note – The Mt Damper Falls track

This guide only gives a taste of is closed to hunters and dogs from the walks on offer. To explore 3 August 1–October 31 each year due to more in Stratford or central lambing. Along the track you will see Taranaki, visit Stratford i-SITE the junction for the Mt Damper Track, a ◀ To Ahititi (see back cover) or 500m challenging 8-hour tramp. www.stratford.govt.nz.

Rob Tucker Rob STRATFORD DISTRICT 23 StratfordDistrict 17 Stratford Heritage Walkway 18 Carrington Walkway Length: 1km, 30–40mins Length: 3–9km, 1–4.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Location: Starts at the Bell Tower Location: Starts at the western end of on Miranda St, Stratford (A) Regan St (A)

CYCLING RESTRICTED

◀ To New Plymouth The Stratford Heritage Walkway This urban and river bush walk starts consists of several memorials to at the western end of Regan St and the Boer War and the two world follows the Pātea River east. Victoria Rd wars – the Bell Tower (A), Malone Once you reach King Edward Park, Memorial Gates (B) and the Hall of you will come across a selection of Remembrance (J). Railway alternate and additional side routes, Regan St You’ll come across a kauri tree (C) which are signposted: Carrington

planted by Queen Elizabeth II and a The Forgotten Highway Walk, Three Bridges Trail, Clemow swing-bridge (D) commemorating the Walk, Western Loop. All of the M coronation of King Edward VII. tracks are similar but offer access to Warwick St Swansea Rd different vantage spots of the points Juliet St Look out for information plaques about of interest along the way. other points of interest: Prospero Pl N L Fenton St K Otago Chambers (E), the old Newton The track leads past the McCullough Broadway King stables (F), Victoria Bridge (G), Rhododendron Dell (B), which Portia St A J I Salvation Army Building (H), 3 has contained hundreds of Regan St the Curtis Store Site (I) – site of the D rhododendrons since the 1960s, C Railway first shop in Stratford, and the original To Hāwera ▶ across farmland and over a few small Stratford Post Office (K). bridges where you may glimpse C H Broadway Centennial Park a brown trout. After crossing the D FentonE St At the end of the walk, watch the ■ G Page St highway, you’ll find more beautiful B F glockenspiel clock tower (L) perform ◀ To New Plymouth Regan St gardens at Windsor Park (C) and a sequence from Romeo and Juliet (at Portia St Thomson Arboretum (D). 10am, 1pm, 3pm and 7pm), check out King Edward Park 3 the Kings Theatre (M), which showed ■ Beyond the arboretum the walkway

Page St To Hāwera ▶ the first talking pictures in the Southern B Brecon Rd follows the Pātea River as far as Hemisphere in 1925, and enjoy a coffee Victoria Rd. in Prospero Place (N). For more information, contact For more information, contact Stratford Brecon Rd Stratford i-SITE (see back cover). i-SITE (see back cover). 100m A 500m

24 www.visit.taranaki.info STRATFORD DISTRICT 25 StratfordDistrict 19 Cardiff Centennial Walkway 20 Otunahe Scenic Reserve Length: 3km, 1.5 hours Otunahe Walk length: 5.5km, 2.5–3 hours Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty: Moderate Hidden Valley Walk length: 1.5km, ½–1 hour Difficulty: Easy Location: Starts at the large carpark on Ōpunake Rd (A) Location: Starts at Aukawa Road, Matau (A), (off Junction Road, , 38km from Inglewood)

The Cardiff Centennial Walkway East Taranaki’s Purangi Kiwi Project spans 13,000 There are two walking trails. The D follows the and hectares – a community project with a predator- 30-minute, Hidden Valley Walk, passes features steep slopes, river flats, control programme that has helped a growing through native bush and a natural C natural bush, farmland and a population of western brown kiwi. canyon before climbing papa (clay) steps swing bridge (B) at the halfway point. – take care as they can be slippery – and through redwoods rich in birdlife (B). Look out for the two weirs (E) built to Follow the signs and markers from the dam the river and supply water to the Field Cabin (A), or join an organised Cardiff Co-operative Dairy Factory that night walk to discover the glow worms. B operated from 1891 to 1951. C The 2.5-3 hour Otunahe Scenic Walk E After the swing bridge, a short side offers great views as it passes through track leads to a clifftop lookout mature native forest rich in birdlife platform (C) with views of the Otunahe and biodiversity. Look out for an mountain, the surrounding farmland Scenic Walk 800–1000-year-old Rimu Tree (C). and a 55m natural gas pipeline bridge (D). You can also enjoy Both walks encounter varied terrain and beautiful views of the river and its changeable conditions. Bush walking stony banks from a picnic area, which footwear and suitable outdoor clothing is located a short stroll from the B Hidden are strongly advised. carpark. Valley Aukawa Tracks are open late spring to autumn. A Walk This walkway was developed by Rd Please enquire outside these times for

Cardiff Rd track conditions. Ōpunake Rd members of the Cardiff Branch of Federated Farmers to coincide with the Maintained by Experience Purangi – A ◀ To Inglewood Junction Rd centennial of the Cardiff School and donations of $10 per person (under District in May 1986. 5s free) fund a predator-controlled For more information, contact environment. Please sign the visitors Stratford i-SITE (see back cover). book in the Field Cabin (A). Cardiff Monument■ For further information on the project To Stratford visit the Experience Purangi office, 100m ▶ 500m and SH3 53 Rata Street, Inglewood.

26 www.visit.taranaki.info STRATFORD DISTRICT 27 South Taranaki South District

21 Walkway South Taranaki Length: 7km, 3–4 hours Difficulty: Easy/Moderate South Taranaki occupies most Location: Can be accessed from multiple of Taranaki’s dramatic and starting points, but best place to start is at the wild coastline. From Ōkato to boat ramp by Ōpunake Lake on Layard St (A) Waverley and Eltham in the east, there are many walking, STDC surfing, cycling and sight- The Ōpunake Walkway is the longest seeing adventures to be had. To New Plymouth ▲ of the formal South Taranaki walks. It South Taranaki’s main town travels around Ōpunake Lake (popular for Hāwera is home to an iconic 45 boating, swimming and water skiing), and I water tower, which was across Ōpunake Walkway heads past the built after the town suffered Orimupiko Cemetery (C) and the Armed extensive fires in 1884, 1888 Constabulary Cemetery(D), and along and 1912 (Hāwera means ‘the the cliffs, providing views of Taranaki burnt place’). You can climb Maunga and the coastline. Wilson Rd to the top of this tower and The Waiaua River Mouth (E) offers see views of Taranaki Maunga extraordinary views of Taranaki’s dynamic Middleton and surrounding farmland – H Bay coastline, Ōpunake Beach (F) has great visit South Taranaki i-SITE for surf and you can view the Taranaki Bight access. Halse Pl from the Lion’s Lookout (G). Middleton

G St Dieffenbach This guide gives just a taste of Pl Hector Bay (H) is a picturesque beach too, but the walks on offer. To explore not safe for swimming. more in South Taranaki, History buffs will enjoy the Old Cottage visit South Taranaki i-SITE Allison St Hospital (B), which was the birthplace of

(see back cover) or www. famous runner Peter Snell. Beach Rd Beach Havelock St

Tasman St

Fox St Te Namu Pā (I) is where Wiremu Kingi southtaranaki.com/visit. Ōpunake F South Taranaki District Beach Matakatea repelled 800 Waikato Māori Council is developing a successfully for an entire month, armed number of new walkways only with a single rifle. A Layard St For up to date detail on the Ōpunake throughout the district. B C Loop Trail please visit www.opunakenz. Contact South Taranaki i-SITE South Rd co.nz/opunake-walkway. for more information and E D updates on progress. Waiaua River Please note – Te Namu Pā is on private property. The owners and the Historic Places Trust ask that the area be treated 500m To Hāwera with care and respect. ◀

Rob Tucker Rob SOUTH TARANAKI DISTRICT 29 South Taranaki South District

22 Ōhawe Beach to Waihi 23 Nowell’s Lakes Walkway Beach Coastal Walkway Length: 3km, 0.75 hours Length: 5km, 2.5–3 hours Difficulty: Moderate Location: Rifle Range Rd, Difficulty: Moderate off Manawapou Rd, Hāwera

Location: Starts at Ōhawe Beach, at the end of Ōhawe Rd, Ōhawe (A) Rob Tucker Rob

There are several points of interest on Starting at the end of Rifle Range Road, B ▶ A the dramatic South Taranaki coastline just south of Hāwera, this short but C between Ōhawe (A) and Waihi pleasant walk through a gully (once a Beaches (G). third lake) leads you through farmland To Manaia that has been planted in native trees The Waingongoro River mouth (B) is by local schools, to Nowell’s Lakes. The where Taranaki’s first Māori settlers lived lake area consists of two freshwater D in small undefended settlements. A lakes entrapped in the coastal sand Ōhawe Rd fortified pā was built where the carpark E dune belt. Both lakes are ground-fed is now located, though later removed. and the water is pristine, providing a cliffs along the coastline (D) clean habitat for a variety of fish. In the , Memorial look out for 3-million-year-old soft papa planting Thousands of swan plants have been rock and nearby rock pools (E), which Lakes Hauroto Rd Walk planted throughout the walkway so, contain a wide range of sea life. Memorial between February and April, swarms ■ Jetty Route is tide permitting Near Ōhawe Beach you’ll also see the ■ of caterpillars and clouds of Monarch Rangatapu Marae (C) and remnants of butterflies can be seen everywhere. F a pioneer tram rail (F). You can also explore a secondary Memorial For more information, contact South Walk walk that leads you towards the coast. 45 Taranaki i-SITE (see back cover). Maram The four walks are well signposted Walk and have seats and picnic tables Warning – This walkway is along the dotted along the way, while toilets are foreshore and is tidal. It is only safe to To Hāwera 5 km G available by the lake. Denby Rd walk up to 2.5 hours before or after low Pohutukawa shelterbelt Rifle Range Rd ▶ tide. Check the tide tables before you The redevelopment of this area has leave. The cliffs along the coast are Carpark ■ attracted a high level of community unstable so beware of falling debris. Gully support. Walk Swimming is only safe at the end of the For more information, contact South boat ramp at Ōhawe Beach (toilets and Taranaki i-SITE (see back cover). changing rooms are available here). Hāwera Remember to pre-organise transport as 1000m this is a one-way walk. 100m

30 www.visit.taranaki.info SOUTH TARANAKI DISTRICT 31 South Taranaki South District

24 Lake Rotokare Walkway 25 Lake Rotorangi Walkway Length: The Loop Track – 4.2km, 1.5–2 Length: 1.5km, 40 minutes hours; The Ridge Walk – 6km, 3–5 hours Difficulty: Easy/Moderate Difficulty: Easy Location: Starts at Lake Rotokare Location: Starts at the end of Rotorangi Information Hut at the end of Sangster Rd Rd, Pātea (A), (take Ball Rd off SH3, (A), (take Anderson Rd 8km north of Pātea) off SH3, 12km east CYCLING of Eltham) RESTRICTED

Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve is Lake Rotorangi Walkway loops the a stunning 230 hectare predator- southern end of the longest man- free environment where you will be made lake in New Zealand. The surrounded by native and endangered walkway crosses the 82m high Pātea Ridge Walk flora and fauna that is quickly regenerating dam (B) and then heads past three in a protected environment. Two tracks totara carvings (C), which were start from the carpark: created by Pātea carvers under the The Loop Track suits pushchairs and tutelage of Reverend Te Napi Waaka. E C B mobility scooters from point (A) to (B). They are Pou Tiaki, Rahui and a Its boardwalks extend through the swamp D carved archway consisting of two Loop Track forest. Seats and a viewing platform are amo (uprights) and two maihi (apex A installed at the best spots for viewing boards). fernbirds (B) and waterfowl (C). B C Travelling in an anti-clockwise The Ridge Walk follows the predator- A direction, the track sits above proof fence for beautiful views of the lake the shoreline and leads around a before joining the Loop Track around the peninsula. lake via an old bullock track. The Ridge Walk has 1220 steps and was built by more Look out for parakeets in the mixed than 123 volunteers with over 10,000 nails podocarp and mānuka forest (D) used in its construction. and enjoy stunning views of the lake Rotorangi Rd as you gradually climb to a high For more information, contact South point (E), before descending back to Taranaki i-SITE (see back cover). the dam. Please note – Lake Rotokare is a predator- A feature of the walkway is a grove of free zone so check your vehicle and bags black beech or tawhai rauriki, which ◀ To Eltham for stowaway rodents before entering. A and SH3 flowers in a burst of brilliant red in Sangster Rd double gate system allows entry to the October and November. reserve – simply push the entry button for

the gates to open automatically. Sturdy To Ball Rd▶ For more information, contact South walking shoes are recommended as there and SH3 Taranaki i-SITE (see back cover). 500m 500m are muddy areas. Maben Rd

32 www.visit.taranaki.info SOUTH TARANAKI DISTRICT 33 VentureTaranaki 26 Historic Walkway About Venture Taranaki Length: 1.5km, 1–1.4 hours Taranaki A Walker's Guide is part of a collection of visitor information tools available Difficulty: Easy/Moderate from Venture Taranaki, Taranaki’s Regional Development Agency, to showcase the region and its many stories and attractions. Location: Starts at the corner of York St and Bedford St, Pātea (A) Venture Taranaki works across tourism, conventions, regional marketing and major events plus business and economic development to grow the Taranaki region. The region’s official website – www.taranaki.info – presents a wealth of information for ◀ Learn about Pātea’s rich history and anyone looking to visit, move or learn more about Taranaki, or grow a business within

To Hāwera ▶ follow the lower end of the Pātea the region. River through pastures and pine Venture Taranaki works one-on-one with individuals, businesses, small groups, clusters, forest to several points of interest Bedford St media and industry to grow the economic wellbeing of Taranaki. Contact us to find out dating back to the 1860s. how we can work with you – www.taranaki.info. To Whanganui A series of signs containing historic 3 photographs and illustrations Egmont St A from award-winning New Zealand Kent St botanical artist Audrey Eagle tell the Other Venture Taranaki York St stories of the wool store wharf (B), B Pātea Port (C), Wai o Turi Marae Visitor Publications (D), Dawsons Redoubt (E), Haere Hau Pā (F) Pātea and more. Domain C When you end your journey at Pātea AND PARKS MUSEUMS AND Beach (G), be sure to enjoy the free GARDENS GALLERIES barbeques and other facilities in the picnic area. For more information, contact South

Free Copy www.visit.taranaki.info Taranaki i-SITE (see back cover). or download at Free Copy Taranaki Rd or download at www.visit.taranaki.info 7th Edition 5th Edition Forgotten World Taranaki: D Please note – Bring sturdy shoes Taranaki Parks Taranaki Museums Highway Touring Surf Highway 45 An Insider's Guide E as there is a steep climb along the and Gardens Guide and Galleries Guide Route Guide Touring Route Guide F walkway that can be muddy and slippery in wet weather. These guides and more can be found at i-SITE Visitor Information Centres in New Plymouth, Stratford and Hāwera or by contacting Venture Taranaki on 06 759 5150, G emailing [email protected] or downloading from www.visit.taranaki.info.

500m

34 www.visit.taranaki.info 35 DOC Information Centres and Taranaki i-SITEs

Department of Conservation Taranaki Area Office 55A Rimu St, New Plymouth (06) 759 0350, www.doc.govt.nz

North Taranaki Visitor Centre 2679 Egmont Rd (off SH3 at Egmont Village) (06) 756 0990, [email protected]

Dawson Falls Visitor Centre Top of Manaia Rd, Kaponga (06) 756 0990, [email protected]

New Plymouth i-SITE Visitor Centre , 65 St Aubyn Street, New Plymouth 0800 639 759, [email protected]

Stratford i-SITE Visitor Centre Prospero Pl and Miranda St, Stratford 0800 765 6708, [email protected]

South Taranaki i-SITE Visitor Centre 55 High Street, Hāwera (06) 278 8599, [email protected]

An initiative of:

Taranaki's Regional Development Agency Venture Taranaki is an initiative founded by New Plymouth District Council and supported by South Taranaki District Council and Stratford District Council. www.taranaki.info

This publication was produced by Venture Taranaki with support and TGMJ009142 - NOV 2020 assistance from Department of Conservation, New Plymouth District Council, Stratford District Council, South Taranaki District Council, Taranaki Regional Council. All efforts have been made to ensure information provided in this publication is accurate, at the time of publishing. ISBN 978-0-473-44681-9