A benched track enters the bush beside the top carpark and begins at a steady grade. The Deadmans Track junction on the right is a few metres in from the carpark.
The track zig-zags above an active slip before crossing a deep ravine of the Mangahuia Stream via a picturesque arched wooden bridge.
A slightly steeper grade from here, the track heads up through smaller shrub species past a pretty waterfall to reach Rangiwahia Hut.
Travel past the villages of Kimbolton and Rangiwahia and continue along Te Para Para Rd and on to Renfrew Road. Follow this to the carpark at the end.
Recreational dog walking is not allowed in the Ruahine Forest Park. This includes dogs on and off a lead.
Gas cooking has been removed from the hut. You will need to take your own portable cooking stoves. There is a wood burner in the hut for heating, which may be used for cooking. Firewood is supplied for the wood burner.
Rangiwahia Hut sits above the bush line on the Whanahuia Range. A popular, well-defined track leads to it and beyond to the tussock covered open tops. Forest in this area is predominantly red beech.
The Rangiwahia Hut area is renowned for its skiing history. Enthusiasts were drawn to the broad snow covered slopes and at one stage the Rangiwahia Ski Club installed a rope tow to pull skiers up the slope.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
DOC Customer Service Centre
| Phone: | 0800 275 362 |
| Email: | manawatu@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | Te Papaioea / Palmerston North Office |