The Fenceline Track is part of the 4-hour, 9.4 km Montana Heritage Trail loop track in the Cascade Kauri, part of Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. Although the track is usually described as part of the Montana Heritage Trail, it is worth exploring in its own right as it provides the best close-up access to ancient kauri trees south of Waipoua Forest on the Kauri Coast, Northland / Te Tai Tokerau.
From the Kauri Cascades car park at the end of Falls Road, take the Lower Te Piringa Track across the Waitākere River. Continue along the river past the pou, which marks the start of the Upper Kauri Track. Cross the bridge over the Cascades Stream and continue to the start of the Fenceline Track near the river. It is a particularly steep 180-metre climb to the ridge line, with many steps. The advantage over the alternative Upper Kauri track is that you get close to some particularly big trees, well protected from kauri dieback by raised steps and boardwalks. Allow about 45 minutes to the top of the ridge from the car park, although you could turn around earlier with your curiosity for ancient kauri satisfied.
Once on the ridge, it is an easy extra km through beautiful forest, with great views, to the Waitākere Reservoir and dam. From the dam, you can explore the side of the reservoir on the Fenceline Track, walk up to Scenic Drive (20 minutes) and check out the top of the Waitākere Falls below the dam. If you make it as far as Simla and the connection with the Long Road Track, keep going to complete the entire loop.
