Davies Track

For the first 15 minutes, the trail crosses a private farm property, following orange marker poles over fence stiles and across paddocks. After climbing a stile into the bush, look for the first of the 31 numbered traps that line the track up to the summit trig. It's a moderate ascent through the bush. About an hour in, the track steepens, becoming more challenging to navigate. After another 15 minutes, the trail veers west and climbs directly toward the summit, requiring hands and feet for balance on rooty, muddy slopes. At the Patuha summit clearing, nearly 360-degree views stretch from the Kaitake Range to the Tasman Sea, with Mt Taranaki towering to the southeast and, on the horizon, possibly a glimpse of Mt Ruapehu. The track continues east to join the Waimoku Track or the Sefton Ridge Track with both ending up at Lucy’s Gully—an option if a car shuttle is arranged. Otherwise, return the way you came.

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 again into Surrey Hill Road to get to the start of Davies Track. It’s about a 20 minute drive from New Plymouth. Use this location in Google Maps to help find your way there.

We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .

No dogs.