Description

This is a standard 10-bunk hut in Tararua Forest Park, in the Wellington/Kapiti region. Fees apply. Bookings not required - first come, first served. Facilities include hmattresses, non-flush toilets and water (not treated - boil before use). There is no heating at Maungahuka Hut so it can get quite cold. Go prepared with extra layers/warm clothing. Maungahuka Hut is located below Maungahuka peak (1330 m) and is part of the Main Range hut network. It is a popular overnight destination for the Tararua Peaks circuit. Maungahuka Hut is best accessed from Otaki Forks on the western side of the Tararua Ranges, or Holdsworth Road-end on the eastern side. From Otaki Forks taki Forks is 19 km inland from taki township approximately 1 hr 30 min drive from Wellington or Palmerston North. The easiest turnoff from SH1 is at taki Gorge Road, just south of the SH1 bridge over the taki River. The last 5 km of the taki Gorge Road is unsealed, narrow and windy drive carefully. From Otaki Forks, tramp to Kime Hut (5-6 hours) then cross the peaks to Maungahuka Hut (another 4 hours). From Holdsworth Road end 2 km south of Masterton, turn off SH2 into Norfolk Road, which turns into Mt Holdsworth Road. Follow signs to Tararua Forest Park, about 15 km from SH2. From here, climb to Neill Forks Hut via Totara Flats and Cone Ridge (8 hours), then continue on to Maungahuka Hut (another 3 hours). Mangahuka Hut is 6 hours from Anderson Memorial Hut. Visibility is often very poor on the Main Range. Only experienced and properly equipped trampers should attempt to cross the Tararua Peaks, especially during winter conditions. Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, yellow for youth) for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 6 or 12-month period.