Iron Whare is a historic hut, constructed from vertical slab totara. The whare was probably built in the 1870s as a musterer's hut.
It is a historic building and is no longer recommended for overnight accommodation.
There is no heating, cookers, mattresses or water tap. Water can be collected from a stream that is around 100 m away (boil before use). The toilet is also some distance from the hut.
There may not be water available in summer, so we recommend bringing drinking water with you.
Iron Whare is accessed from a track that turns off the main track through Kaweka Flats. It is around a 30-40 min walk to the hut from the main track.
The track to Iron Whare is not well marked, so it is best suited to experienced and confident trampers who have good navigational skills.
Kaweka Forest Park access conditions
We recommend 4WD vehicles to reduce wear on the road and safe travel.
- Lotkow Road: The river crossings are regularly changing, check before crossing.
- Lakes carpark is accessible via Kuripapango road. The previous access Castle Rock road is now closed due to ongoing forestry operations.
- Lawrence Carpark access road: The last 600 m of the road is steep and not recommended for 2WD vehicles - a parking space is available before the descent. The Lawrence swing bridge has been removed.
- Mackintosh car park is currently closed due to ongoing forestry operations. A new parking location can be located at a skid site near the closed gate (end of Kuripapango Road), this will add on 500 m walking to reach the start of the track.
- Whittle Road: Be aware of trucks using the quarry. Give them right of way where possible.