Ambury Monument Walk: Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki, Taranaki region

Introduction

Walk to the Ambury Monument, a memorial to climber Arthur Ambury who gave his life in 1918 in a heroic attempt to save his climbing partner.

380 m one way

Description

From the visitor centre, follow the boardwalk to the viewing platform past the Camphouse. A track from here leads to the Ambury Monument, a memorial to climber Arthur Ambury who gave his life on 3 June 1918 in a heroic attempt to save William Edwin Gourlay who had slipped on ice. Both died when they fell over the bluff.

There is a grassy picnic spot by the monument with views of Taranaki Maunga.

Return the same way or follow the Nature Walk to exit just below the visitor centre.

Getting there

The track starts at the North Taranaki Visitor Centre.

To get there, head 13 km south from New Plymouth to Egmont Village. Turn off State Highway 3 on to Egmont Road and follow it for 16 km to the end. The visitor centre is signposted from the junction.

Know before you go

Be prepared for changeable weather

Weather on the mountain changes rapidly – you must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions.

Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged.

Check the Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki weather forecast before you go.

History and culture

Ambury Monument

The monument commemorates the bravery of Arthur Hamilton Ambury, who died in June 1918 trying to save the life of William Gourlay. William Gourlay had slipped on ice while climbing, and the pair died when they fell over a bluff on the maunga when Arthur Ambury was attempting the rescue.

Unveiled on Good Friday, 18 April 1919, the stone obelisk was built of locally-sourced stone, set on a square base incorporating stone seats on each side. It includes a plaque noting Mr Ambury’s heroic effort, which earned him a posthumous Albert Medal, presented to his widow Annie a year later by then–Governor General Arthur Foljambe.

Ambury Monument Walk

Introduction

Walking and tramping

Dog access

Brochures