Last updated July 2026
Embark on a memorable journey through the Ruahine Ranges with the Sunrise Hut Track in Ruahine Forest Park. This well-graded track in the mid-eastern section of the park offers a rewarding overnight tramp suitable for families and new trampers. It passes through changing forest types to the open tops, with excellent views across the Hawke’s Bay plains and memorable sunrises from the hut.
Practical Information
| Location | Ruahine Forest Park, mid-eastern section, Hawke’s Bay |
| Distance | Approximately 12 km round trip (one way 2–3 hours) |
| Elevation gain | Approximately 600 m |
| Hut capacity | 20 bunks (serviced hut) |
| Hut elevation | 1,280 m |
| Access | North Block Road end car park; last 4 km through private farmland |
| Bookings | Required for overnight stays via DOC |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Facilities at hut | Wood burner, tank water (treat before use), long-drop toilet, no cooking facilities |
| Car park facilities | Toilet and information board |
About Sunrise Hut Track
The Sunrise Hut Track is one of the most popular tracks in Ruahine Forest Park, particularly with family and school groups. It is a high-quality benched walking track that makes its way through changing forest types to the open tops.
Sunrise Hut sits in a tussock basin beside the bush edge at 1,280 m and offers magnificent views across Hawke’s Bay. The original hut was constructed in 1983 by the New Zealand Forest Service, upgraded in 2005, and revamped in 2021 by the Department of Conservation.
From behind the hut, a 30-minute route leads to the sub-alpine herbfields at Armstrong Saddle (1,370 m), where Mt Ruapehu can be viewed on a fine day. Caution is required in this exposed area where strong northwesterly winds are common.
The track remains in excellent condition and provides opportunities for birdwatching amid the region’s native flora and fauna. The turnoff to Waipawa Forks Hut Track is around one hour from the start.
Access and Getting There
North Block Road is approximately 100 km from Napier. Follow State Highway 50 for 66 km and turn right into Wakarara Road. After 20 km, turn left into North Block Road. The track starts at the road end. The last 4 km of this road passes through private farmland. Keep to the formed road, do not disturb stock, and leave gates as you found them. Respect private property boundaries at all times.
A toilet and information board are available at the car park. Cellphone reception at the track and hut is limited.
Track Conditions and Experience
The track is well formed with a significant elevation gain of approximately 600 m from the car park to the hut. It takes 2–3 hours to walk one way. The terrain shifts from farmland and native beech forest to scrubland and sub-alpine zones. In winter, snow may be present around the hut.
Weather in the Ruahine Ranges can change rapidly. Check forecasts, pack appropriate layers, and inform someone of your plans. Fill in the hut visitor book for safety purposes.
Hut Facilities and Booking
Sunrise Hut is a serviced 20-bunk hut with large benched sleep areas, a wood burner, bench tops with sinks, a long-drop toilet, broom and shovel, and two tables with bench seats. Tank water must be treated before use. There are no cooking facilities; visitors should bring their own cookers. All rubbish and foodstuffs must be removed on departure.
Advance bookings are required and managed through the Department of Conservation. Your booking guarantees a bunk but not a specific one. Fees apply and vary by day of the week.
What Visitors Often Say
Families and first-time trampers appreciate the well-graded track, steady climb, and rewarding views from the hut, noting it feels achievable yet scenic.
Overnight visitors highlight the cosy wood burner, comfortable bunks, and spectacular sunrise experiences, while emphasising the need to book ahead and prepare for variable mountain weather.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Sunrise Track: Official track description, access details, and conditions.
Department of Conservation – Sunrise Hut: Hut facilities, fees, booking information, and location details.
Department of Conservation – Ruahine Forest Park: Broader park information and other tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee for parking at the Sunrise Hut car park?
No, parking at the car park is free, though visitors must follow guidelines to keep access clear.
Can pets accompany me on the Sunrise Hut Track?
No, dogs and other pets are not permitted on the track or in the park to protect native wildlife.
Are guided tours available for the Sunrise Hut Track?
No official guided tours are listed by the Department of Conservation for this track, though local operators may offer experiences in the wider Ruahine Ranges.
What should I do in case of an emergency on the track?
Stay calm, administer first aid if needed, remain in place if possible, and use any available means to signal for help. Limited cellphone reception means thorough preparation is essential.
What is the best time of year to hike the Sunrise Hut Track?
Spring and autumn generally offer milder conditions, though weather can change rapidly at any time of year. Winter may bring snow around the hut.
Do I need to book the hut in advance?
Yes, advance bookings are required through the Department of Conservation, especially on weekends and during peak periods.
Is there cooking equipment at Sunrise Hut?
No cooking facilities are provided. Visitors must bring their own cookers, though the wood burner may be used as a heat source.
Can I visit Armstrong Saddle from the hut?
Yes, a 30-minute route from behind the hut leads to the sub-alpine herbfields at Armstrong Saddle.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
