Rangiwahia Hut - Deadmans Track

The challenging 13 km Rangiwahia Hut - Deadmans Track Circuit is located in the Ruahine Forest Park, a protected area in the Manawatu/Whanganui region in New Zealand’s North Island. A strenuous but varied route that takes in beech forest, native shrubland and mountain ridgeline, most trampers split this route into two, hiking to the Rangiwahia Hut along the Whanahuia Range for an overnight stay and returning via exposed Deadman’s Track. Find parking past the towns of Kimbolton and Rangiwahia, at the end of Renfrew Road. From the trailhead follow the Rangiwahia Hut Track and spend the night in this backcountry hut that sleeps 13 and sits above tree line. A serviced hut, booking is required for the Rangiwahia Hut which offers basic facilities including bunks, mattresses, heating via a wood burner which can be used for cooking, non-flush toilets and untreated water. It should also be noted that the gas cookers have been removed from the hut so trampers will need to bring portable cookers if gas is required. From Rangiwahia Hut, return to car park via Deadmans Track along the ridgeline of the Whanahuia Range. This route is not recommended during adverse weather which makes it hard to navigate on the exposed ridge which can become very boggy and wet. This loop can be completed as a strenuous day hike, taking approximately 7 – 9 hours, but due to the exposed ridgeline sections, it should not be attempted in poor visibility. This demanding route is prone to fast-changing weather, and is only recommended for experienced trampers, equipped with navigational skills, appropriate warm and waterproof layers, sufficient food and water. Always check the weather before setting out on this route, and note that dogs are only allowed if there is a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes. Based on our data, the trail is graded as medium. For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates. This trail can be completed in approx. 2 days. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here. Photo Credit:Michal Klajban