From the junction with Warner Rd, follow the old Takahue Saddle Rd (just a track now) as it turns away from the River and climbs steeply through farmland for 2 kms. At the saddle, turn off left/East into the Ratea Forest. It's a rough climb up to the ridge and on to a 580m peak.

The Raetea Forest has some of the highest peaks in Northland, so expect cloud and rain. The bush track follows the ridge line on a largely west-east basis past:
* The 744m Raetea summit 
* An unnamed highpoint of 727m (past a junction with a track leading north ona route out to SH1).
* The 638m Kumetewhiwhia summit
* The 445m Umaumakaroro summit
Before descending through bush & private farmland to Makene Rd, Mangamuka.

Warnings: Be careful when following the orange track markers. Best to use a GPS as one section is apparently falsely marked and tails off - so don't proceed when you can't see markers ahead.

Support Services:

• Peter Griffiths of Takahue can provide a drop-off and pick up service for a small fee. Contact him in advance on (09) 408-3685.
• Some local accommodation places will provide transfers. Ask when you book.
• I-SITE Information Far North, Jaycee Park, South Rd, Kaitaia Ph: 09 408-0879 www.visitorinfo.co.nz