There are two tracks to Burn Hut – the tramp can be done as a return trip on either track, or the tracks can be combined to make a loop (with some road walking).

Steep section on the Burn Hut Track
Image: Michelle Campbell ©

Mangahao Lower No. 2 Reservoir to Burn Hut

Time: 3 to 4 hr

The track starts on the far side of the Mangahao Lower No.2 Reservoir and sidles down the true right of the river for around 1 hour. While this section of the track looks flat on the map, there are actually many small ups and downs. Just past a wooden bridge, the track climbs for an hour to the bush line.

The track emerges onto the tops, which are thickly covered with leatherwood. The track follows the ridge for another hour to Burn Hut, which is located on a small spur.

From here, you can return the way you came, or take an alternative track to the upper reservoir and walk back to your car along the road (described below).

Burn Hut to Mangahao Upper No. 1 Reservoir

Time: 3 to 4 hr

From the hut, the track crosses a small saddle then climbs back to the ridge line. After following the ridge for around 1 hour the track sidles behind high point 835 m and begins its decent, reaching college stream in another 40 minutes.

There is no formed track down College Stream. Instead, you will need to walk in the stream bed, boulder hopping and crossing often. If there has been heavy rain, we recommend that you do not attempt this route – it may be impassable.

After around following College Stream for about an hour, you will reach its junction with Baber Creek. The track starts around this junction, on the true right. Allow about an hour from here to the dam.

Follow the track towards Mangahao Upper No.1 Reservoir. It follows the edge of the reservoir and crosses the dam face, ending at the Mangahao Road end.

Mangahao Upper No. 1 Reservoir to Mangahao Lower No. 2 Reservoir

Follow Mangahao Road for 4 km, from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir.

There is no track or footpath, so watch out for vehicles, especially on corners.

Access to Mangahao Flats Track is accessed from Shannon. Take East Road out of Shannon, then follow Mangahao Road. You will pass Mangahao Power Station, and shortly after this the road will become gravel. Continue following Mangahao Road.

After around 30 minutes, you will reach Tokomaru No. 3 Reservoir. Continue following the road past the reservoir and gently up a hill, before descending steeply down into Mangahao Valley. You will then reach the Mangahao Lower No. 2 Reservoir.

If you are starting the track from Mangahao Upper No. 1 Reservoir instead, continue along Mangahao Road until you come to the end of the road.

Be aware that Mangahao Road is very winding – it is best suited to people who are confident driving on remote New Zealand gravel roads. We strongly advise driving slowly and carefully, and driving the road in daylight.

Expect a backcountry tramping track

This track is a typical Tararua backcountry tramping track. It is rough and uneven, and you can expect to be scrambling up and over tree roots.

Pack for bad weather

The Tararua Ranges are well known for their wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather. Anytime you go into the Tararua Forest Park, pack warm and waterproof clothing (even if the forecast is good). Take a distress beacon and an emergency shelter.

Find a tramping packing list here.

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely