The Rata Ridge Track offers a moderately challenging loop circuit well-known for its tranquil setting.
The Stanley Street Track is one of the Wainuiomata entrances to the Northern Forest section of East Harbour Regional Park. It begins at the end of Stanley Street, near number 52, and provides direct access to the southern end of the Rātā Ridge Track.
The climb is steep and the clay surface can become slippery when wet. It is a shared walking and mountain-biking route, although cyclists may need to carry their bikes over the steepest section.
Once on the ridge, walkers can continue towards Lowry Trig and the Wainuiomata Hill, or use Fern Gully, Lees Grove or the Zigzag Track to create loop or point-to-point walks.
The track follows what was originally a firebreak. Stanley Street, and consequently the track, is believed to have been named after George Stanley Sharp, a director and bondholder in the Wainuiomata Development Limited company during the early development of the area.
Dogs are permitted in the Northern Forest but must remain on a lead. Walkers should also be alert for mountain bikers, particularly when travelling downhill.
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