McKinnon Hut

Alert/Important notice

No vehicle access to Kawhatau base

See the 'Getting there' section for alternative access infromation.

Hut category

Standard

Facilities

6 Bunks
Heating
Mattresses

Hut details

McKinnon Hut in the snow.
McKinnon Hut in the snow

Water source - tank
Heating source - woodstove

The view from McKinnon Hut.
The view from McKinnon Hut

Getting there

Previously there has been vehicle access to Kawhatau base through private land but this access is no longer available.

Access is now by walking up the Kawhatau River from the Rangitane road bridge across the Kawhatau River. Please note this route may not be accessible during times of high river flow.

To get to the Rangitane road bridge, head just north from Mangaweka and turn right off SH1. Cross the Rangitikei River and follow Kawhatau Valley Road. This eventually leads to Upper Kawhatau Valley Road which becomes Rangitane Road.

Notes

Hut location

Grid reference: Topo50 map sheet BK36, E1864993, N5591831

Tracks and walks

McKinnon Hut Track

Perched on the northern end of the Hikurangi Range in Ruahine Forest Park, McKinnon Hut is accessed via a long ridge climbing up from the Kawhatau Valley. Stay a night and return the same way.

Purity to Kawhatau Base Track

Walk along the tussock tops of the Hikurangi Range between Purity and McKinnon huts in the Ruahine Forest Park.

Park or reserve

Western Ruahine Forest Park

The Ruahine Forest Park consists of beautiful bush-covered ranges. Recreational opportunities include tramping, hunting, cross country skiing, snowboarding, rafting, kayaking, fishing, swimming and camping.

Plan and prepare

Access

Due to farm management issues, you must contact the landowner to make prior arrangements to cross private land at Rangitane Road-end. The gate will be locked so you will not be able to enter if you have not contacted the landowners.