11 October 2026
Cloudy periods, and occasional showers. Thunderstorms and hail possible during the afternoon and evening. Northwesterlies, but easterlies about the coast for a time afternoon and early evening.
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1 / 2Kaweka Forest Park
Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing
Lotkow Road branches off Whittle Road at the entry point to the Kaweka Forest Park.
Distance
6.99 km
Walking time
3 - 4 hr one way
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Allowed — check local rules
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Hawkes Bay forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 5:43 am
12 October 2026
Fine. Easterlies developing for a time in the afternoon.
13 October 2026
Fine. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
Fine apart from isolated showers. Northwesterlies.
15 October 2026
Showers developing. Northerlies, turning westerly.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing
The track starts with a steep climb to the Black Birch Range, then continues along the range. It passes the Black Birch Bivouac before reaching Little's Clearing. Either return the way you came or continue on to the Lawrence Campsite.
Essential information for Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing
There are two fords on Lotkow Road which can become too high to negotiate after heavy rain. This is a mountainous area. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, whiteouts, high winds on the ranges and rapidly rising water levels in rivers and streams. Pack for all conditions and be ready for weather delays, including with an emergency shelter, spare food and a distress beacon. This is a backcountry tramping track and it is rough, muddy and slippery (especially after rain). It is best suited to experienced trampers with backcountry skills. You will need sturdy boots with good grip. Extreme fire conditions can exist during summer. The park is a restricted fire area, which means permits to light fires are required all year round.
Huts and campsites
Black Birch Bivouac
Getting there for Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing
The track starts 5 kilometres along Lotkow Road, 65 km north-west of Napier. From Napier follow Puketitiri Road for 36 km before turning left into Whittle Road. Whittle Road passes partly through farmland before reaching the park entrance (please leave all gates as found). This road may be closed at times during winter because of snow. Lotkow Road is the first road on the left at the entranceway to the park. Use this location on Google Maps to help find your way there.
Helpful resources
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 . We recommend trying these 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
Dog access for Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing
Dogs with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only.
Before you walk Lotkow Road to Little's Clearing
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.