Kiwi Saddle Hut, Kaweka FP, Saturday 27 September 2025
Banner Photo: Looking north-west from the highpoint 1359 at the ridgeline of the Smith Russell track
The intrepid three
Three intrepid trampers left Napier to brave what might have been a cool tramp to Kiwi Saddle Hut. On arrival at the Lakes car park, it was 11 degrees – almost balmy. The sky was mostly blue (there were a few clouds) and there was a cool wind on the tops. We started our climb about 8.15am and deviated off the track to Mount Kuripapango mast and view point. Great looking down into the valley and out to sea. The lakes were a brilliant blue and the Ngaruroro River an emerald green.
Then it was back to the track and onwards and upwards. As we tramped, we were entertained by a lot of birdsong and a flock of tui playing in the wind currents high up in the sky.
The view west to the Ngaruroro River
The lookout was reached (1359m) and there was no ice or snow to stop us in our tracks. We had a lovely view of Mt Ruapehu. The top of the mountain had a layer of cloud which had cleared significantly on our return. After morning tea, we continued on our way and were delighted with a colourful garden of shrubs as we came out from the beech forest onto the clay/scree area prior to our descent to the hut. At the hut, we even found sunshine to sit in while eating lunch.
A trap was reset after lunch – it contained a rat – and then we headed up and back to the lookout. From this point, it was mainly downhill. On the way, some wilding pines were removed – only a zillion to go!
We were back at the car park about 3 pm, after deviating to the trig lookout on the way down. The total walking time was 5.37hrs, height gained 1044m and a total of 13.9km.
A great day out and perfect company. Thanks to Elly for driving and Tarah who photographed our journey.
Trampers: Elly Govers, Tarah Carpenter (photographer) and reporter Mary Campbell
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