Waipawa Forks Hut

The place

Standard 12-bunk hut managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) in Ruahine Forest Park, on the Hawke's Bay/Manawatu-Whanganui border (North Island, New Zealand), at about 790 metres elevation. Built in 1970 by the New Zealand Forest Service. Rates until 30 June 2026: NZD 10/night adult, NZD 5 child (5-17), free under 5. No booking, payment by Standard Hut Ticket left in the honesty box or by annual Backcountry Hut Pass. Two 2-hour (4.5 km) access routes: via the Waipawa Forks Hut Track or up the Waipawa River (unmarked, not maintained by DOC).