Mount Messenger to Whitecliffs Walkway Track
Located in White Cliffs and Mount Messenger Conservation Area in the Taranaki region
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Introduction
This track climbs to the summit of Mt Messenger and then descends to the coast.Dog access
This track climbs through tawa forest up a steep ridge to the summit of Mt Messenger (310 m). It then continues along the ridge through tawheowheo and kamahi forest. Rata are visible on the slopes below, and their flowers, in December/January, attract tui and bellbirds. The western slopes are damper, with tawa, ponga and the occasional pukatea tree.
Although the track follows a defined ridgeline it may be overgrown in places and navigation may be difficult.
Waipingau, the second highest point of the route, is reached approximately 1 hr 30 min after the start and is marked by an old iron survey peg. From here the track descends to the coast. Approximately 30 min before reaching Whitecliffs the track crosses the Maui gas pipeline. A short section through nikau forest leads to the Whitecliffs Walkway.
From Whitecliffs Walkway you can return to Mount Messenger, or with prior transport arrangements, follow the Walkway south to Pukearuhe.
The track begins on SH3, 50 km north of New Plymouth and approximately 1 km from the base of the southern side of Mt Messenger.
No parking
There is no longer a carpark available for this track. The small carpark on SH3 near the track entrance is closed due to ongoing roadworks on Mount Messenger.
If you want to hike this track, you will need drop off and collection.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Taranaki/Egmont National Park Visitor Centre | |
| Phone: | +64 6 756 0990 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | egmontvc@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
2879 Egmont Rd Egmont National Park |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 462 New Plymouth 4340 |
| Full office details | |