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Pukearuhe, North Taranaki
6.5 km
3 hours 30 minutes
421 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a coastal adventure that perfectly captures the wild, untamed spirit of the Taranaki coastline, the Whitecliffs Walkway is a must-do. Located at Pukearuhe, about an hour’s drive north of New Plymouth, this 6.5km loop offers a tramping experience that feels worlds away from the manicured tracks of the city. It is a journey of contrasts: one moment you are standing on high, grassy ridges overlooking the vast expanse of the Tasman Sea, and the next, you are trekking along a remote beach beneath towering, pale cliffs.
The journey begins at the Pukearuhe boat ramp, where the road literally runs out. From here, you’ll start your ascent. The track initially follows the route of the Kapuni to Auckland gas pipeline, which means the trail is direct and doesn't shy away from a bit of elevation. You’ll be traversing private farmland, so expect to share the path with the occasional sheep or cow. The terrain is undulating and can be quite demanding; there are several steep climbs and descents that will certainly get your heart rate up.
As you climb toward Mt Davidson, the 421-metre elevation gain becomes apparent. The views back towards the south-west are spectacular, often revealing the silhouette of Mt Taranaki on a clear day, standing proud behind the coastal range. The path leads you through pockets of regenerating native bush, where the air cools and the scent of damp earth and ferns takes over. Eventually, the trail begins its long descent toward the Wai Pingao Stream. This section is particularly picturesque, with the stream winding its way through the valley toward the ocean.
The walk is rated as moderate, but don't let that fool you—it is a proper "Kiwi tramp." The track can become incredibly muddy and slippery after the typical Taranaki rainfall, making sturdy footwear and a good level of fitness essential. Because the track crosses working farmland, it is strictly not dog-friendly, and due to the steep clifftop sections and the technical nature of the beach return, it isn't recommended as a kid-friendly outing. It is a walk for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge and a lot of fresh, salty air.
The Whitecliffs Walkway is packed with "wow" moments, but the namesake of the trail is undoubtedly the star of the show. The Paraninihi (Whitecliffs) are a sight to behold. These sheer, pale siltstone cliffs rise dramatically from the ocean, creating a stark contrast against the dark iron sands and the deep blue of the Tasman Sea. From the high points of the track, you get a bird’s-eye view of these geological wonders, stretching away into the distance.
Parking is available at the Pukearuhe boat ramp, located at the very end of Pukearuhe Road, north of Urenui. Space is limited and shared with boat users and local farmers, so arriving early is recommended. Ensure your vehicle does not obstruct the boat ramp or farm access.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
5km away
A charming eatery near Urenui, offering bold, seasonal flavours in a relaxed, rustic setting – perfect for a post-hike meal or a leisurely coffee.
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Loop
One of the most unique features of this hike is the Te Horo stock tunnel. Carved through the rock in the early 20th century, this historic tunnel allowed farmers to drive cattle along the coast without having to navigate the treacherous clifftops. Walking through the cool, dark passage today feels like stepping back into Taranaki’s pioneering past.
As you make your way along the beach section (tide permitting!), you will also encounter the famous Three Sisters rock formations. These sea stacks are constantly being reshaped by the relentless Tasman swells, standing as a testament to the power of coastal erosion. The beach return is a highlight in itself, offering a completely different perspective of the cliffs you were just standing atop. Looking up at the sheer scale of the Paraninihi from the sand is a humbling experience.
For those with extra energy, the optional 11km one-way tramp to Mt Messenger offers an even deeper dive into the region's ecology. This route climbs to the Parininihi Ridge high point and takes you through lush tawa and kamahi forest, providing a true wilderness experience for more ambitious hikers.
To find the trailhead, head north from Urenui on State Highway 3. You’ll need to turn off onto Pukearuhe Road and follow it all the way to the very end. The drive itself is beautiful, winding through rural landscapes before the ocean suddenly comes into view.
Parking is available at the Pukearuhe boat ramp. However, please keep in mind that space is quite limited. This area is used by local farmers and boaties, so it’s important to park considerately and ensure you aren't blocking any access ways or the ramp itself. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended, especially on weekends or during the summer months, to secure a spot and beat the midday heat.
The mix of open pasture, regenerating native bush, and coastal margins makes this a fantastic spot for birdwatching. As you move through the bush sections, keep an ear out for the melodic chime of the Bellbird (Korimako) and the boisterous call of the Tui. Both are common year-round and are often seen flitting through the tawa canopy.
Down by the coast and along the Wai Pingao Stream, you are likely to spot the Variable Oystercatcher with its distinctive bright orange beak. If you’re lucky and visiting during the spring or summer, look out to sea—you might see Australasian Gannets diving for fish offshore. On the farmland and near the damp stream margins, the colourful Pūkeko is a frequent sight, strutting through the grass with its characteristic flicking tail.
Pro tip: Bring a pair of binoculars! The clifftops provide an excellent vantage point for spotting seabirds catching the updrafts along the rock faces.
The Whitecliffs Walkway is best experienced during Spring, Summer, and Autumn. Each season brings its own charm; spring offers lush green grass and the sight of newborn lambs (from a distance!), while summer provides the best conditions for the beach return.
Important Note: The walkway is closed annually from 1 July to 30 September for the lambing season. This is a strict closure to protect the livestock on the private land the track traverses.
The Tide is King: The most critical piece of advice for this walk concerns the beach return from the Wai Pingao Stream mouth. This section is strictly tide-dependent. You must only attempt the beach walk within two hours either side of low tide. Check the tide timetables before you leave home. If the tide is coming in or the sea is rough, do not risk it—active cliff slips and changing sand conditions make this section hazardous at high tide. If conditions look unfavourable, simply return the way you came via the inland track.
The Whitecliffs area, or Paraninihi, holds immense cultural and spiritual significance to the local Māori iwi, Ngāti Tama. For centuries, this area served as a vital gateway between the Taranaki and Waikato regions. The cliffs themselves were a formidable natural barrier, and the traditional pathways through this area are steeped in history.
The name Paraninihi translates to "steep cliffs," and the area is part of a significant conservation effort. The Parininihi forest is a "mainland island" where intensive pest control has allowed native biodiversity to flourish, including the successful reintroduction of the Kōkako.
Geologically, the cliffs are made of "Mohakatino" volcanic siltstone. They are constantly changing, as the Tasman Sea relentlessly hammers the coastline. This constant erosion is what gives the cliffs their sheer, white faces, but it also means hikers should stay well clear of the cliff edges and be cautious of rockfalls when walking along the beach below.
After 3.5 hours of tramping and beach-combing, you’ll likely have worked up quite an appetite. Fortunately, the nearby village of Urenui has some fantastic spots to refuel.
Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your backyard or a tourist seeking the "real" New Zealand, the Whitecliffs Walkway offers a raw and beautiful experience that you won't soon forget. Respect the land, watch the tides, and enjoy the wild beauty of North Taranaki!
Haematopus unicolor
Coastal wading bird with a distinctive long orange-red bill. Found on beaches and estuaries around New Zealand.
Best time: Year-round
Charadrius bicinctus
This small shorebird is identifiable by the distinctive double black band across its chest during breeding season.
Best time: Summer-Autumn
Morus serrator
These impressive large seabirds are renowned for their spectacular plunge-diving technique, hitting the water at high speeds to catch fish.
Best time: Spring-Summer
Porphyrio melanotus
Purple swamphen with distinctive red bill and frontal shield. Common in wetlands and grasslands.
Best time: Year-round
6.5km away
A historic local pub in Urenui known for its relaxed community atmosphere and hearty, traditional Kiwi pub meals – ideal for a satisfying feed after your tramp.