11 October 2026
Showers, clearing in the afternoon, but cloud and drizzle remaining about western slopes.
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Walking track
Tararua Forest Park
A backcountry tramping track that joins Blue Range with Cow Creek Hut and the Waingawa River valley.
Distance
4.4 km
Walking time
3 hr
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Allowed — check local rules
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:23 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, clearing in the afternoon, but cloud and drizzle remaining about western slopes.
12 October 2026
Fine, apart from morning drizzle. A few showers at night.
13 October 2026
Showers, some possibly heavy.
14 October 2026
Showers clearing.
15 October 2026
Showers, some possibly heavy.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
The track begins at the track junction on Blue Range, around ten minutes from Blue Range Hut. It follows a ridge off Blue Range, then descends steeply into the Waingawa River valley. The track then follows the Waingawa River upstream on the true left, crossing several unbridged side streams. A swing bridge then gives access across the Waingawa River to Cow Creek Hut.
This track is a typical Tararua backcountry tramping track. It is rough and uneven, and you can expect to be scrambling up and over tree roots. The Tararua Forest Park is well known for wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather. Pack warm and waterproof clothing, even if the forecast is good. Carry emergency equipment including a torch, spare food, a distress beacon and an emergency shelter. There are unbridged rivers; know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross. Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
Cow Creek Hut Blue Range Hut
This track can be accessed from the Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut Track , or from Cow Creek Hut .
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.