10 October 2026
A few showers, clearing in the morning, but cloud remaining about northern faces. Rain developing at night, possibly heavy.
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1 / 6Dawson Falls area
Waingongoro Hut tracks
Waingongoro Hut is a good overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers - walk through goblin forest, stop for a swim in lava-formed pools, and cross the highest swing bridge in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki.
Distance
7.01 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min one way
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
Weather outlook
Mount Egmont National Park forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
11 October 2026
Rain easing to a few showers in the morning. Snow to 2100 metres until evening.
12 October 2026
A few showers.
13 October 2026
Rain easing.
14 October 2026
Rain, with heavy falls. Snow lowering to 2500 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Waingongoro Hut tracks on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
Waingongoro Hut from Dawson Falls
Time: 1 hr 30 min Distance: 2.9 km Follow the Wilkies Pool Loop Track from just above the visitor centre, rock hopping across the Kapuni Stream. Join the Ridge Track and climb uphill to meet the Waingongoro Track. Follow this downhill, past the 24 m high Waingongoro swing bridge, to the hut. Return the same way or via Wilkies Pools. Kapuni Stream is usually shallow but after heavy rain can become unpassable. Alternate access is via a bridge lower down Kapuni Stream. From the visitor centre walk 50 m down Manaia Road to the Kapuni Loop Track entrance. Follow signs to the Ridge Track, crossing the bridge before climbing uphill to reach Waingongoro Track, leading down to the hut.
Waingongoro Hut from Mountain House Shelter
Time: 1 hr 30 min Distance: 2.9 km From Ngāti Ruanui Stratford Mountain House, the track crosses several unbridged streams before reaching the Waingongoro swing bridge. Rivers may be impassable after heavy rain. Across the bridge a short track leads down to the hut. Return the same way. Note: Waingongoro Hut borders a cliff edge overlooking Waingongoro River. Take care near the cliff edge - there is no barrier.
Essential information for Waingongoro Hut tracks
Be prepared for changeable weather Weather on the mountain changes rapidly; you must be well prepared with suitable clothing and equipment for all weather and conditions. Snow, high rainfall and storm damage can make tracks impassable – many rivers and streams are unbridged. Stay safe when crossing rivers If you plan to cross 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. Expect a backcountry tramping track This is a typical backcountry tramping track, with uneven surfaces, tree roots and muddy parts. We recommend sturdy footwear with good grip.
Huts and campsites
Waingongoro Hut
Getting there for Waingongoro Hut tracks
Use these links on Google Maps to help find your way there - starting points are Stratford Mountain House or Dawson Falls.
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 Waingongoro Hut tracks
No dogs.
Before you walk Waingongoro Hut tracks
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.