Sunrise Track
Located in Ruahine Forest Park in the Hawke’s Bay region
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Introduction
This well-graded track is a great overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers - it passes through changing forest types to the open tops, with great views of the Hawke’s Bay plains and excellent sunrises from the hut.6.4 km one way
Dog access
Sunrise Hut Track is one of the most popular tracks in the park, particularly with family and school groups. It is a high quality benched walking track which makes its way through changing forest types to the open tops.
There are superb views of the Hawke’s Bay plains and excellent sunrises from the hut, which resides in a tussock basin beside the bush edge.
From behind Sunrise Hut there is a 30 minute route up to the sub-alpine herbfields at Armstrong Saddle where you can view Mt Ruapehu on a fine day.
Caution is required in this exposed area where strong northwesterly winds are common.
The turnoff to Waipawa Forks Hut Track is around 1 hour from the start of Sunrise Track.
The North Block Road end is the most popular starting point for visitors to the Eastern Ruahine.
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 start of Sunrise Tracks starts at the road end.
The last 4 km of this road is through private farmland. Dogs are not permitted. Please don’t disturb stock and leave gates as you found them.
- There is a toilet at the car park.
- Cellphone reception at the truck and hut is limited.
Armstrong Saddle (1370 m) was named after pioneer pilot Hamish Armstrong, who was never found when his Gypsy Moth crashed in the area in the 1930s.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| DOC Customer Service Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0800 275 362 |
| manawatu@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | DOC offices |