Full Day New Zealand Hiking Trips
(click for Half Day Hiking Trips or Overnight Hiking Trips)
Ellis Hut Circuit, Ruahine Conservation Park (grade 3)
Ellis hut is the oldest in the Ruahine Conservation Park, built in 1884. It reeks of history and adventures past, not to mention a tale of dark deeds, and running from the law. Enough said! Come along, and find out the grubby details for yourself. The walk is an easy, if longish, one, requiring average fitness. It includes a river crossing, a wide, easy forest track through beautiful regenerating native bush, and an easy walk on gravel forestry roads back to the car park. A delightful scenic surprise near the end for those who don’t mind wet feet! Total walking time of about 5 hours, and the total experience should take about 7 hours, travel included. Includes travel, a snack, packed lunch and tea/coffee.
Cost NZ$135.00 per person (single surcharge plus NZ$45.00).
Sunrise Hut Circuit, Ruahine Forest Park (grade 5)
Sunrise Hut is the most popular destination in the Ruahine Conservation Park, for good reason. The track is wide, easy and well maintained, and winds through beautiful native forest until it emerges on top of a ridge near the hut, where marvellous views await you on both sides (if the weather plays along!). It is not difficult, but does require good fitness, as it is a relentless 700m climb. Well worth the effort, though. In winter the views are just awesome in scope and beauty, as the tops are usually covered in snow – be prepared for walking through the fluffy stuff, as on occasion the snow level is right down to the car park. A short stop at Triplex hut is also included in this walk. Total walking time about 5 hours, and the total experience should take about 7 – 8 hours, travel included. Includes travel, a snack, packed lunch and tea/coffee.
A possibility with this hike (with prior notice) is returning to the car park via the Waipawa river, adding
variation and some additional challenge to the hike. It would add approximately 1 hour to the walking time.
No extra costs involved, except wet feet!
An additional option after this hike (with prior notice) is a stop at the historic general store in Onga Onga
village for a coffee/tea and cake, on us!
Cost NZ$155.00 per person (single surcharge plus NZ$50.00).
Longview Hut Up–and–Down, Ruahine Forest Park (grade 5)
This is the hike for those who prefer open country, with the wind in their hair. Also a very popular hike because of the interesting landforms, slips and expansive views. The hut can be seen from State Highway 2 on occasion, and as the saying goes, on a clear day, you can see forever - hence the name, Longview. From the car park the track almost immediately climbs 500m to the ridge, so good fitness is required. The reward is an ever expanding view as you toil upwards – well worth the effort! Surprisingly it takes only about 2 hours to get to the hut. This location is, however, often buffeted by strong to very strong winds, so be prepared. Total walking time is about 4 hours, and the total experience should take about 6 – 6.5 hours, travel included. Includes travel, a snack, packed lunch and tea/coffee.
Cost NZ$135.00 per person (single surcharge plus NZ$45.00).