11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, clearing in the afternoon with increasing fine spells. Northerlies, turning westerly around midday.
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1 / 32Pureora Forest Park
Waihāhā Hut Track
Walk to Waihāhā Hut for a short overnight trip.
Distance
9.4 km
Walking time
3 hr one way
Difficulty
Intermediate
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
Taupo forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
12 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies developing for a time in the afternoon and evening.
13 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
Partly cloudy with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Northwesterlies developing in the morning.
15 October 2026
A few showers, some possibly heavy. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Waihāhā Hut Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Waihāhā Hut Track
Time required : 3 hours one way The track follows the Waihaha River through shrubland into dense podocarp forest. The Waihaha Hut is in a clearing overlooking the river where the track meets the Hauhungaroa Track. There is a small camping area beside the hut.
Essential information for Waihāhā Hut Track
NZTopo 50 map sheets: BG34, BG35
Huts and campsites
Waihaha Hut
Getting there for Waihāhā Hut Track
From SH32 (Western Bay Road), turn into the carpark for the Taupo Great Lake Trail (south of the Waihaha Road turnoff). Cross the road from the carpark, go over the small bridge and you'll see the start of the track. Use this location in Google Maps to 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 Waihāhā Hut Track
Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact closest DOC office to get a permit.
Before you walk Waihāhā Hut Track
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.