A scenic, well-formed track winding through a lush fern forest.
Fern Gully Track provides one of the most attractive entrances into the Northern Forest section of East Harbour Regional Park. Beginning between 19 and 21 Gardiner Grove, the track climbs from the residential edge of Wainuiomata to meet the Rātā Ridge Track above.
The walk begins with a short section through open grassland before crossing a small creek and turning into the forest. The surroundings soon change as the track enters a sheltered gully filled with tree ferns. The abundance of ferns gives the track its name and creates a cool, enclosed atmosphere that feels far removed from the nearby streets.
From the gully, the track climbs steadily towards Rātā Ridge. Although the route is relatively short and well defined, the ascent still requires a reasonable level of fitness. The sheltered location can also leave the surface damp after rain, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Fern Gully lies within an extensive area of native forest covering the hills between Wainuiomata and Eastbourne. The wider Northern Forest contains significant beech and northern rātā forest, while its damper valleys support species such as kahikatea, pukatea and nīkau.
The track’s name is descriptive rather than commemorative, reflecting the large number of ferns growing throughout the gully. Local place-name records indicate that the name was in use by the 1980s, although the route may have been used before it appeared on published track maps.
Dogs are permitted within the Northern Forest but must be kept on a lead.
Loop Walk Options
At the upper end, Fern Gully Track joins Rātā Ridge Track, opening several possibilities for a longer walk. From here, walkers can continue towards Lowry Trig, follow Rātā Ridge towards Stanley Street, or connect with Lees Grove Track. Lowry Trig stands at 373 metres and is the highest point in the Northern Forest, with a nearby lookout providing partial views towards Wellington Harbour.
One of the best ways to experience Fern Gully is as part of the Trig Loop. This route begins at Lees Grove, climbs through native bush to Rātā Ridge and returns through Fern Gully before following the nearby streets back to the starting point.
The track can also be walked on its own by starting at Gardiner Grove, climbing to the Rātā Ridge junction and returning by the same route. This shorter option allows visitors to enjoy the fern-filled gully without completing the full ridge circuit.
At a glance
Entrance: Between 19 and 19B Gardiner Grove
To Rātā Ridge: About 30 minutes
Return through Lees Grove: Approximately 4.8 km
Estimated loop time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Grade: Medium, with a steady climb and some damp sections
Highlights: Fern-filled gully, native forest, tree ferns, mature beech forest and Lowry Trig
Connections: Rātā Ridge Track, Lees Grove Track and the wider Northern Forest network
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