The Sunny Grove Track originally formed the first section of the Whakanui Track, but its entrance was relocated, leaving this section to be reclaimed by nature.
Not to be confused with the Old Whakanui Track, the Sunny Grove Track is a disused section of the Whakanui Track that was relocated from its original route. It used to serve as the entrance and initial segment of the track, but has since been rerouted to start above the top of Sunny Grove instead.
As its name suggests, the Sunny Grove Track runs parallel to Sunny Grove. You can begin the walk as far back as the the bridge leading to Top Pool at Hine Road Recreation Area or above Sinclair Cemetery. From there, the track heads south, following the contours above Sunny Grove for approximately 1 kilometre (or just over half a mile). It eventually joins the Whakanui Track, not at its entrance but further uphill, providing an alternative access point. This can be especially convenient if you’ve parked your car at the Hine Road Recreation Area.
The track itself is relatively easy to navigate, although it is no longer maintained. Some sections are overgrown, but the path remains discernible throughout.
This route also offers some views over Sunny Grove / Skerretts Gully.
