Kiwi Saddle Hut, Kaweka FP, Saturday 23 May 2026
Banner Photo: Some expanses of clay pan with rocky terrain
Seven left Park Island in Alison’s and Shona’s cars right on 7am, heading for Cameron car park. It wasn’t too cold as we headed off up towards Kuripapango on a track that’s now well-used because the Lakes car park is unavailable, due to logging.
Heading up to join the Smith Russell track
After 20 minutes of climbing, we were rewarded with magnificent views of the Ngaruroro River and surrounding areas.
The view down to the Ngaruroro River
There was a slight breeze as we got to a rocky outcrop and ridgeline but luckily the wind eased, making it an ideal tramping day. The higher we got, the greater the views. A significant area of pine trees had been harvested below us (and it’s only two months more until we regain access to the Lakes car park).
I always like seeing the 14- and 23-metre waterfalls on the Waikarekare stream far below, off to the East. Mount Ruapehu soon came into view in the far distance, with not much snow yet for skiing.
I managed to pull out a few wilding pines before reaching the Smith Russell track, where we enjoyed a short morning tea. Our numbers had reduced to five as the 700 metres up is hard going. But we knew the other two weren’t far behind.
The next section of the track is particularly attractive, with its moss carpet under the trees, but there weren’t many fungi to be seen as it was quite dry. After some more puffing and panting, we were reduced to four – Alison decided to stop early for lunch before the descent to Kiwi Saddle Hut. Pam was happy to tick off another hut, done in under four hours.
Kiwi Saddle Hut sits in shade most winter days
We didn’t stay for long, as the hut is in a shady area; we found a sunnier spot for lunch then headed back to the cars. Along the way, we met some trampers and hunters on their way in for a night at the hut.
There were mountain bikers enjoying the great terrain, too, although we didn’t see them. Couldn’t believe you could bike up such steep hills then want to go flat out down them. Sue and Mary chatted to a guy sorting out the Kaweka challenge races to be held towards the end of the year.
This was another great outing, in stunning conditions. Thanks to Alison and Shona for taking their cars and to Shona for organising the day.
Trampers: Shona Tupe, Sue Martin, Pam Millard, Ali Hollington, Mary Campbell, Alison Greer and reporter Campbell Living
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