Last updated November 2026
The Waimoku Track climbs from Lucy’s Gully in the Kaitake Range near Oakura to Patuhā Trig (682 m), with great views along the coast and up to Taranaki Maunga. The track leads up through forest, and the last 100 m to the trig is a scramble up an exposed rocky section that some people find a challenge.
DOC grades it Advanced and allows 2 hours to the trig. You can return the same way or loop back to Lucy’s Gully on the Sefton Ridge Track. DOC notes many Kaitake Range tracks are overgrown with small windfalls, so expect longer travel times.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Waimoku Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Lucy’s Gully, off Ahuahu Road, State Highway 45 past Oakura
- Distance from the city
- about 15 km from New Plymouth
- Walking time
- 2 hr to Patuhā Trig
- Track length
- About 3.5 km
- Grade
- Advanced
- Dogs
- No Dogs
- Track type
- Tramping track
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Waimoku Track
Lucy’s Gully sits at the foot of the Kaitake Range, the forested hills behind Oakura, and the Waimoku Track heads up from here to Patuhā Trig. The climb winds up through forest to Patuhā Trig at 682 m.
The final 100 m is the crux: a scramble up an exposed rocky section that DOC says some people may find a challenge. The reward is a view along the coast and up to Taranaki Maunga. If you would rather avoid the scramble, DOC suggests the Davies Track from Surrey Hill Road as an easier way to the trig.
From the trig, return the way you came, or turn left onto the Sefton Ridge Track, which also brings you back to Lucy’s Gully just below the Waimoku Track entrance. Walkers with transport at both ends can also combine the Waimoku and Davies tracks as a one-way trip of about 4 hours.
The Kaitake Forest
DOC describes the lowland coastal forest of the Kaitake Range as very different from the forest elsewhere in the park. Trees here include nīkau, tītoki, kohekohe and pūriri, with pukatea, karaka, silver fern and many smaller plants.
A stand of Californian redwoods planted in the 1930s is protected under a special dispensation, while other exotic trees from that time are slowly being removed so native species can regenerate.
Track Conditions and Preparation
Many Kaitake Range tracks are overgrown and have small tree windfalls on them, so expect to take longer than the listed time. The rocky section below the trig is exposed, so take care there, especially in wet or windy weather.
Pack a waterproof jacket and plenty of warm layers, and wear sturdy shoes, ideally tramping boots. Check DOC before you go, tell someone your plans, and use Plan My Walk to prepare.
Getting There
From New Plymouth, follow Devon Street West south and continue on State Highway 45. About 5 km past Oakura, turn left at Ahuahu Road to reach Lucy’s Gully.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Waimoku Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki: an overview of the national park, including the Kaitake Range tracks and current alerts.
Plan My Walk: plan your trip, check the weather and track alerts, and share your plans with someone you trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Waimoku Track take?
DOC allows 2 hours to Patuhā Trig. Allow extra time, as Kaitake Range tracks can be overgrown.
How hard is the Waimoku Track?
It is graded Advanced. The last 100 m to the trig is a scramble up an exposed rocky section.
Where does it start?
At Lucy’s Gully. Drive about 5 km past Oakura on State Highway 45 and turn left at Ahuahu Road.
How high is Patuhā Trig?
DOC gives the trig’s height as 682 m.
Is there an easier route to the trig?
Yes. DOC suggests the Davies Track from Surrey Hill Road as an easier alternative.
Can I make it a loop?
Yes. From the trig, turn left onto the Sefton Ridge Track, which returns to Lucy’s Gully just below the Waimoku Track entrance.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC’s rule for this track is No Dogs.
Is the track open?
It was open when we checked on 18 October 2026, with no DOC alerts. Check the DOC page for current alerts before you go.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.