The track begins at the end of Putara Road in Mangatainoka Valley. The track passes along the edge of farmland then soon crosses a bridge over the river. The track then follows the true left of the river for around 2 km.

At this point, the track crosses the north branch of the Mangatainoka River over a high swing bridge. The track then climbs steeply from the valley to the top of the ridge. At the top of the ridge there is a track junction. Take the left-hand track, which is signposted for Roaring Stag Hut. (The right-hand track goes to Herepai Hut.)

The track follows a long ridge down into the Ruamahanga Valley. The gradient is mainly gentle, though it gets steeper the closer you get to the valley. Once you reach the valley floor, the track leads down the valley across river terraces with tall forest.

There are four unbridged crossings of side streams on the river flats section of the track. Under normal conditions they are small and can easily be crossed. However, they can rise significantly after rain. If they are flooded or if you are not confident that they are safe to cross, wait for the water levels to drop. Herepai Hut is an alternative option if you cannot get across the streams to Roaring Stag Hut.

Roaring Stag Hut is reached just after the fourth stream crossing. The hut is situated in a clearing beside the Ruamahanga River.

Roaring Stag Track is accessed from Putara Road, which is around 20 minutes’ drive from Eketāhuna.

In the centre of Eketāhuna, turn left off State Highway 2 onto Bridge Street. Follow Bridge Street out of Eketāhuna and over a bridge across the Makakahi River. Continue following Bridge Street through the outskirts of Eketāhuna. Bridge Street becomes High Street – follow High Street then take a right-hand turn onto Septimus Street.

Continue along Septimus Street for about 1 km, until it turns in Nireaha Road. Follow Nireaha Road for 3.2 km, then continue straight onto Priest Road. Follow Priest Road for 4 km, until you reach a junction with Putara Road and Mangatainoka Valley Road. Turn left onto Putara Road, then follow it up Mangatainoka Valley until you reach the small parking area near the end of the road.

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 down tree roots.

Pack for bad weather

The Tararua Ranges are well known for 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).

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