Whakapapaiti Hut

Mangaturuturu Hut to Whakapapaiti Hut

Time: 5 hr 30 min

10.3 km Shortly after leaving the hut, the track crosses the Mangaturuturu River. Caution: It may not be possible to cross safely when the river is high during or following rain. The river bed was scoured out in 1975 by a lahar (volcanic mud flow), thus the sides of the river are devoid of established vegetation. A climb out of the valley brings you to Lake Surprise, a shallow alpine tarn. The staircase that climbs up from Lake Surprise onto the ridge above, was constructed to protect the fragile alpine environment. The traverse to Whakapapaiti features two magnificent river valleys, the Manganui-o-te-Ao and the Makatote. This part of the track features views of Hauhungatahi, a conical peak to the northwest of Ruapehu, as well as spectacular waterfalls tumbling off lava bluffs in the Whakapapaiti Valley. At the junction just before Whakapapaiti Hut, you have the option of continuing on to Scoria Flat on the Bruce Road (1 hr 30 min), or turning off to Whakapapaiti Hut (15 min) and on to Whakapapa Village (2 hr 30 min).

Whakapapaiti Hut to Whakapapa Village

Time: 2 hr 30 min

8.7 km From the Whakapapaiti Hut the track continues down the valley. 15 min below the hut it crosses Whakapapaiti River. When the river flow is low, you can boulder hop across - but after rain it is not possible to cross safely. You can avoid the main river crossing, and exit along the top return route to the Bruce Road at Scoria Flat, 5 km above Whakapapa Village. About 45 minutes below the hut the Mangahuia Track branches off to the left (to Mangahuia Campsite and SH47). The track to the village continues straight on then veers east. Interesting features of this area are the groves of kaikawaka and cabbage trees amongst the beech forest. From here the track undulates for a number of easy climbs and descents before joining the well formed Silica Rapids Track, for the last 45 min to Whakapapa Village. Waihohonu requires advance reservation in the peak season, as it is a Great Walk hut/campsite. Backcountry tickets or passes are required in the off peak season. The other five huts/campsites are on a first come basis year round, and backcountry tickets or passes are required.

- it may not be possible to cross safely when the river is high following or during rainfall. Whakapapaiti Hut is 10-15 minutes further up the track.