Follow the Wilkies Pools Loop Track then turn right at the first junction to cross Kapuni Stream. Turn right again at the next junction and walk up a short steep track to join the Ridge Track.
Head down the ridge and over a bridge to reach Manaia Road just below the visitor centre.
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 SH23 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
Mt Taranaki 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.
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.
Dawson Falls Visitor Centre
| Phone: | +64 27 443 0248 |
| Email: | egmontvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | Manaia Road Egmont National Park 439 |
| Hours: | Visitor centre hours and services |
Taranaki/Egmont National Park Visitor Centre
| Phone: | +64 6 756 0990 |
| Email: | egmontvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | 2879 Egmont Road Egmont National Park 4386 |
| Hours: | Visitor centre hours and services |