Follow the Wilkies Pools Loop Track then turn right at the first junction to cross Kapuni Stream.

Rock hop across the stream then continue until the next junction, turning right to head up a short steep track to join the Ridge Track. Turn right, walking down the ridge and over the bridge across the Kapuni Stream to reach Manaia Road below the visitor centre.

Take care when crossing the Kapuni Stream as the river bank may be eroded, making access difficult. If the Kapuni Stream is impassable due to flooding, return back to Wilkies Pool Track junction. Turn right to continue up to the pools and across the bridge. From here you can  follow signs to Stratford Plateau and then turn right to descend the Ridge Track.

Take care when crossing the Kapuni Stream as the river bank may be eroded, making access difficult. There is no bridge across this stream. It may be impassable after heavy rain.

The track starts at the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.

To get there starting from Stratford, turn off State Highway 23 into Celia Street, which becomes Opunake Road. Follow this for 14 km, then turn right into Manaia Road. Continue on this road for 9 km up the mountain to Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.

Be ready 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.

Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable.

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

Take extra care on the access road

Take care when travelling up Manaia Road to Dawson Falls road end as there may be increased traffic and heavy goods vehicles.

Dawson Falls Lodge is being redeveloped at Dawson Falls road end. The Lodge and café are closed during this work.