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Kaweka Forest Park
Tramp through manuka and beech forest to Mackintosh Hut
Distance
3.4 km
Walking time
2-3 hrs
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, 11:01 pm
11 October 2026
Mainly fine, with areas of early morning fog. Showers developing in the afternoon, possibly heavy with thunderstorms and hail, clearing in the evening. Northwesterlies developing for a time in the morning and afternoon.
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
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
The track drops down a steep but well graded track to the Tutaekuri River. The Tutaekuri River is crossed by a steel pedestrian bridge. The track then climbs steeply – this section can be slippery, so we recommend good footwear and taking your time. Once the track reaches the top of Mackintosh Plateau, it continues on the flat through manuka and beech forest and through some open areas to the hut. You can return the way you came, or take the Lakes carpark to Mackintosh Carkpark via Mackintosh Hut Track to make a loop track, but note there is 2.5km of road to walk between the two carparks.
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.
Mackintosh Hut
This track previously started at Mackintosh car park but the car park is closed due to ongoing forestry operations. A new parking location can be located at a skid site near the closed gate (end of Kuripapango road), this will add on 500 m walking to reach the start of the track. Use this location on Google Maps to help find your way there.
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 with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only.
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.
