Last updated November 2026
The Mt Grey/Maukatere Track climbs from the Grey River picnic area in North Canterbury to the 934 m summit of Mt Grey/Maukatere, with what DOC calls “some of the best views in Canterbury”. DOC grades it Easy to intermediate and gives 2–3 hr one way.
The track rises steadily through native bush and small patches of pine before opening onto tussock slopes below the summit trig. You can combine it with the advanced Red Beech Track to make a circuit. The start is about 45 km from Christchurch, reached via Amberley, which makes it a good day trip from the city.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Mt Grey/Maukatere Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Grey River picnic area, Okuku Road (parking at the gate)
- Distance from the city
- About 45 km from Christchurch
- Walking time
- 2–3 hr one way
- Track length
- 6.1 km
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- Dogs on a leash only
- Summit
- Mt Grey/Maukatere, 934 m
- Mountain bikes
- Not allowed
- Maps
- NZTopo50 BW23 and BV23
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Mt Grey/Maukatere Track
Mt Grey/Maukatere stands in the Mount Grey/Maukatere Conservation Area, and this track climbs to its summit. From the Grey River picnic area it climbs steadily through native bush, with a few small areas of pine forest along the way.
Higher up, the bush gives way to tussock slopes that lead to the trig on the 934 m summit. On a clear day the views from the top stretch a long way across Canterbury.
DOC grades the track Easy to intermediate, but it climbs steadily all the way to the summit, so allow time and bring enough food and water.
Make It a Circuit
DOC suggests combining this track with the Red Beech Track to make a more challenging circuit of Mt Grey/Maukatere. The Red Beech Track is graded Advanced and is steep, and DOC notes it is easier to descend than climb. Use Plan My Walk to check the weather and share your plans before you head out.
Getting There
From Amberley, follow Douglas Road and then Cramptons Bush Road to the Lake Janet picnic area, 17 km from Amberley. Turn left into Mount Grey Road, then right into Okuku Road, and continue 3.5 km to the Grey River picnic area. DOC notes: “The ford is no longer accessible.
Parking is at the gate.” Watch for heavy vehicles and logging trucks on the roads. DOC notes that access is through a commercial forest and roads may be closed at times of extreme fire danger, during high winds or for logging operations. For the latest road conditions, DOC says to phone Matariki Forests on +64 3 310 7612.
Track Conditions and Safety
Possum trapping with leg-hold traps takes place in this area, by permit only, and DOC says traps must be at least 50 m from the track.
DOC asks that dogs are kept on a leash and under control on this track to protect them. Wasp numbers peak from January to March, so DOC suggests light-coloured clothing and carrying antihistamine. Check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Mt Grey/Maukatere Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Mount Grey/Maukatere Conservation Area: other tracks on the mountain, including the Red Beech Track.
Plan My Walk: weather, track alerts and a trip plan to share before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Mt Grey/Maukatere Track take?
DOC gives 2–3 hr one way to the summit.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it Easy to intermediate, but it is a steady climb of 6.1 km to a 934 m summit.
Can I take my dog?
Yes, on a leash. Possum trapping with leg-hold traps takes place in the area, and DOC asks that dogs are kept on a leash and under control to protect them.
Where does the track start?
At the Grey River picnic area on Okuku Road. DOC says parking is at the gate.
Can I do a loop?
Yes. Combine it with the advanced Red Beech Track for a circuit of the mountain.
Can I mountain bike it?
No. Mountain bikes are not allowed.
Are there wasps?
DOC says wasp numbers peak from January to March.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.