Department of Conservation | Te Papa Atawhai
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
Located in Kaweka Forest Park in the Hawke’s Bay region
Introduction
At 800 metres altitude, this hut is situated on a terrace above the Ngaawapurua Stream in a sunny, flat, sheltered position.- Wood/coal stove suitable for cooking
- Sink bench
- Rainwater supply from tank
- Axe, shovel and broom
- Meat safe
- Long drop style toilet
At 800 metres altitude, this hut is situated on a terrace above the Ngaawapurua Stream in a sunny, flat, sheltered position. Red/mountain beech forest dominate the locality and rise steeply away from the hut’s vicinity. Access to the park’s ‘Manson Country’ across the Ngaruroro River to the south is unavailable.
Ngaawapurua Hut is located at the confluence of the Ngaruroro River and the Ngaawapurua (Harkness) Stream in an open clearing.
Built in 1963, this hut’s original standard design has been upgraded to include a veranda. With adequate camping space surrounding the hut, this is an ideal location for a larger group seeking a back-country experience. The hut can experience a wide range of climatic conditions which can include brief snowfalls during cold southerly weather and heavy winter frosts, but it is sheltered from westerly winds.
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
- Youth (5–17 years): $5 per night
- Child/Infant (0–4 years): free
Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, yellow for youth) for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 12 month period.
About hut tickets and passes | Retailers that sell hut tickets and passes
Helicopter
The helipad is located 30 metres immediately in front of the hut. Flight availability and costs can be obtained from helicopter concessionaires in the central North Island.
Walking
Harkness Hut (2.5 – 3.5 hr)
To reach Ngaawapurua Hut from Harkness Hut, a marked track leads 5.5 kilometres south following, and in places, crossing the Ngaawapurua (Harkness) Stream.
Tramping
Ngaawapurua Hut is no longer on a through tramping track since the access to the private land across the Ngaruroro River has been closed. The Ngaruroro River in this area of the park, is not suitable for travel by foot and at times of heavy water flows becomes dangerous and impassable. Access into and out of the riverbed can be very difficult in many places above and below the hut area.
Location
NZTopo50 map sheet: BJ37
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1880440, N5652201