Image: Janey Thomas | ©
Switchbacks on the track to Mt Grey/Maukatere.
Red Beech Track

Located in Mount Grey/Maukatere Conservation Area in the Canterbury region

Combine this track with the Mt Grey/Maukatere Track to form a circuit of Mt Grey/Maukatere. The track is steep and easiest to descent than climb.

From the summit of Mt Grey it's possible to descend via Red Beech Track to the Grey River picnic area. This track is steep in places, over patches of scree, and is easier to descend than climb.

About half way down you'll need to ford the Grey River. Check the river levels at the picnic site before starting your trip – if the water is flowing over the ford, it will be too dangerous to cross the river on Red Beech Track.

Combine this track with the Mt Grey/Maukatere Track to form a circuit of Mt Grey/Maukatere and enjoy the views from the summit.

From Amberley, follow Douglas Road, then Cramptons Bush Road until the road reaches the Lake Janet picnic area (17 km from Amberley). Turn left into Mount Grey Road, then right into Okuku Road to reach the Grey River picnic area (3.5 km from the the Lake Janet picnic area).

Note:

  • The ford across the Grey River is no longer accessible. Park at the gate before the river and cross the river on foot. This should only be attempted in low flows.
  • Be aware of heavy vehicles and logging trucks on the roads.

NZTopo50 map sheet: BW23, BV23

The ford across the Grey River to the Grey River picnic area is no longer accessible. Park at the gate before the river and cross the river on foot. This should only be attempted in low flows.

No mountain bikes allowed.

Wasp populations reach high numbers from January to March – wear light coloured clothing and carry antihistamine cream/tablets as a precaution.

Possum trapping is taking place here

Possum trapping using leg-hold traps is taking place in this area. Ensure your dog is on a leash and under control on this track to keep them safe.

Possum trapping is allowed by permit only. Leg-hold possum traps must be a minimum of 50 m from the track.