Waingongoro Hut from Dawson Falls

Time: 1 hr 30 min
Distance: 2.3 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 East Egmont

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. Do not walk or camp on the helipad.