Last updated November 2026
The Poutaki Hut Track offers a rewarding backcountry experience in the Wakarara Range of Ruahine Forest Park, Hawke’s Bay. This steep trail climbs through native bush to the 1,020-metre summit of Poutaki before descending to a basic four-bunk hut.
Visitors enjoy panoramic views over the Hawke’s Bay plains and the surrounding ranges on a well-marked but challenging route. The track starts with a river crossing and forestry road access near Leatherwood Road, making it suitable for fit day hikers or those seeking an overnight stay. Proper preparation is essential due to the rugged terrain and variable weather.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Poutaki Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Location
- Wakarara Range, Ruahine Forest Park, Hawke’s Bay
- Access
- Via Wakarara and Leatherwood Roads; cross Makaroro River or riverbed. No public vehicle access through Gwavas Forest Monday to Friday (logging); the roads are open on foot at weekends
- Difficulty
- Advanced; steep climbs and uneven terrain
- Time
- 2 to 3 hours one way (2 km, 377 m elevation gain)
- Hut
- Four bunks, woodburner, rainwater tank; free; altitude 960 m
- Dogs
- Not permitted (DOC: no dogs)
- Fees
- Free (hut and track)
- Best season
- Late spring to early autumn for drier conditions
- Track markers
- On marked bush tracks, DOC and most councils use orange triangles for the walking route. Triangles or tape in other colours, usually pink or blue, mark pest-control lines and traps. They can lead off the track, so don’t follow them.
About Poutaki Hut Track
The Poutaki Hut Track lies in the Gwavas Conservation Area on the eastern side of the Wakarara Range within Ruahine Forest Park. It provides access to remote native bush featuring manuka scrub and patches of beech forest.
The route begins at the end of Leatherwood Road after a Makaroro River crossing and follows a steep spur to the summit before dropping to the hut.
Poutaki Hut was reconstructed in 1983 from parts of an older musterers’ hut and restored in 2021 by Backcountry Trust volunteers. It sits in a small grassy clearing on a north-east facing slope, 70 metres below the 1,020-metre summit. The hut offers basic shelter with four bunks, a woodburner, and a rainwater tank.
The track is well-cut and marked although not shown on all maps. It delivers sweeping views back to the main Ruahine Range and eastward across the Hawke’s Bay plains. Forestry operations occur in the Gwavas Forest area, so visitors must remain alert for vehicles on access roads.
Access and Getting There
Access begins from the Wakarara Road end near Hastings, approximately a one-hour drive. DOC says public vehicle access to Makororo Road and Wakarara Road in Gwavas Forest is closed Monday to Friday for logging.
The roads are open for foot access at weekends, and walking access to Poutaki Hut is open when no forestry operations are under way. All routes require crossing the Makaroro River or walking the riverbed, which becomes dangerous in high water.
Park at the designated road end and follow the DOC signpost. The track is suitable for experienced trampers only due to the steep initial climb and potential for overgrown sections after rain.
Trail Description and Terrain
The trail starts on forestry roads before transitioning to a steep bush track that gains around 377 metres to the Poutaki summit. After passing a radio mast, it descends sharply for several minutes to reach the hut. The track is short but demanding: DOC gives 2 km and 2 to 3 hours one way.
Expect advanced difficulty with uneven ground, steep ascents, and possible slippery conditions. The path offers diverse landscapes including dense manuka and native forest patches along the way.
Safety and Preparation
Weather in the area changes rapidly, so check forecasts and carry appropriate gear including a map or GPS. Stream crossings at the Makaroro River require caution, especially after rain. No dogs are allowed on the track.
Firearms require a weekend permit from the local DOC office. Only two hunting parties are permitted per weekend. Always inform someone of your plans and carry extra water and supplies.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Official details on Poutaki Hut facilities, access, and permits.
Department of Conservation: Track description, access notes, and river crossing advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance and time for the Poutaki Hut Track?
DOC gives 2 km one way, taking 2 to 3 hours each way, with about 377 m of elevation gain.
Is booking required for Poutaki Hut?
No booking is required as the hut is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are dogs allowed on the track or at the hut?
No. DOC does not allow dogs on the Poutaki Track.
What facilities does Poutaki Hut have?
The hut has four bunks, a woodburner, rainwater tank, and non-flush toilets.
How do I access the starting point?
Drive to the Wakarara Road end, cross the Makaroro River, and follow Leatherwood Road to the track start.
What is the best time to visit?
Late spring through early autumn offers the most reliable weather for this exposed route.
Is the track suitable for beginners?
No, the steep terrain and river crossing make it suitable only for experienced and fit trampers.
Are there any hunting restrictions?
Weekend firearm permits are required and limited to two parties; contact DOC for details.
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Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.