Purity Hut, Ruahine Forest Park
The Ruahine Forest Park covers an area of 94,000 ha which consists of tussock tops, craggy peaks, bush covered ranges and picturesque rivers. It offers considerable recreational opportunities including tramping, hunting, cross country skiing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and camping. There is a network of tracks and huts.
View the Western Ruahine Forest Park brochure (PDF, 1890K).
No vehicle access to Kawhatau Base
Previously there has been vehicle access to Kawhatau Base through private land but this access is no longer available. Alternative access is available by walking up the Kawhatau River from the Rangitane road bridge across the Kawhatau River. Note this route may not be accessible during times of high river flow.
During the 1930s the rounded open top of the Whanahuia Range in Ruahine Forest Park beckoned to ski enthusiasts. Rangiwahia Hut is on the site of the old skifield.
You can enjoy walking, hunting, snow skiing, fishing, rafting and canoeing in the Western Ruahine Forest Park.
A network of huts are provided and maintained by the Department of Conservation throughout the park.
Ruahine Forest Park is characterised by a cool, cloudy climate with heavy rain at times. The area is renown for strong winds especially in the southern ranges.
Ruahine Forest Park and its neighbouring parks form an almost continuous chain of protected lands along the central North Island ranges. Recreation opportunities include hunting, mountain biking and tracks for both experienced trampers and day walkers.
The Manawatu Rangitikei Area Volunteer Programme aims to build capacity in our communities by providing a range of opportunities for people to get involved in conservation and recreation activities.
Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services in Western Ruahine Forest Park.
NZ weather
DOC maps: Discover the outdoors - DOC's key places, campsites, tracks and huts, and visitor centres on a map
Check, Clean, Dry between waterways and stop the spread of didymo.
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:1. Plan your trip2. Tell someone3. Be aware of the weather4. Know your limits5. Take sufficient supplies
Alerts for Taranaki places
Safety