Ngā Taonga Nature Walk

Ngā Taonga Nature Walk introduces you to some of the most diverse and interesting plant life in the Catchpool Valley.

Meander through dense native bush and learn more about the area through interpretation panels highlighting unique trees and plants along the way.

The trail is located in the Catchpool Valley, one of the most popular entrances to the Remutaka Forest Park and Orongorongo Valley.

Catchpool Valley is open:

• 6am–8pm during summer (daylight saving)
• 6am–6pm during winter

The trail can be accessed from Catchpool Valley, located 12km south of Wainuiomata. Follow Coast Road for 10km to the entrance of Remutaka Forest Park, then continue along Catchpool Valley Road for 2km to the car park and information area.

The walk begins at the clearing beside the Graces Stream footbridge, on the downhill side of the car park. Alternatively it can be started further down the valley on the opposite side of the road to the toilets.

There are regular bus and train services to Wainuiomata, however, you'll need to drive from Wainuiomata to Catchpool Valley. Timetables are available from Metlink.

• Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list. For weather forecasts, check the MetService website.
• Check the track status on the Department of Conservation website.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
• Toilets, water, picnic facilities and campsites are available at the campground on Catchpool Valley Road.
• There is no cellphone coverage in Catchpool Valley. A 24-hour emergency phone is available at the campground on Catchpool Road.
• You must cross a ford to get to the main car park. If water is flowing over the ford, the car park can still be reached on foot via the Ngā Taonga Nature Walk.
• Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.