Last updated November 2026
The Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut track is a short, steep climb in the Tararua Forest Park from the end of Kiriwhakapapa Road, around 16 km north of Masterton, to Blue Range Hut, a small DOC hut that DOC describes as “quirky” with great views. DOC grades it an Advanced tramping track and times it at 2–3 hours for 3.36 km.
In that short distance the track gains around 650 m, much of it on a steep ridge where tree roots double as handholds. It starts gently on the family-friendly Kiriwhakapapa Loop Track past a stand of tall redwoods before turning into a proper Tararua climb.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alerts for the track, but check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- End of Kiriwhakapapa Road, beside Kiriwhakapapa Campsite (7 km from State Highway 2)
- Distance from the city
- About 50 km from Palmerston North
- Walking time
- 2–3 hr one way (some people take longer)
- Track length
- 3.36 km
- Height gain
- Around 650 m
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track (DOC grade)
- Dogs
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
- Huts
- Blue Range Hut (DOC Standard hut, 4 bunks)
- Water
- None on the climb: DOC advises at least 2 L per person
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut
The first section is shared with the Kiriwhakapapa Loop Track, a well-graded loop that DOC describes as family friendly. It passes what DOC calls a spectacular stand of tall redwoods and areas of regenerating native forest, so the start is an easy, pleasant warm-up.
At the junction, the right-hand track leaves the loop for Blue Range Hut, and you’ll notice the track quickly gets narrower and rougher. It follows Reef Creek up the valley on the true right, then crosses a side stream (unbridged) and heads up a steep ridge towards the top of Blue Range. DOC says the valley section can get very muddy, especially in winter and after heavy rain.
Near the top there is another junction: right for Blue Range Hut, left for Cow Creek Hut, 4.61 km away in the Waingawa River valley. Reaching the crest of Blue Range is the payoff.
You briefly leave the forest and, in DOC’s words, enjoy “fantastic views of the peaks deeper into the park”. From there the hut is a short walk along the ridge.
The track suits fit trampers with some backcountry experience who want a short but serious climb and a night in a small hut. DOC’s advice is to check that everyone in the group has the fitness for the climb and to go slowly and carefully.
Blue Range Hut
Blue Range Hut is a DOC Standard hut with 4 bunk beds and mattresses, heating, a non-flush toilet and tap water that is not treated, so boil it before use.
With just four bunks, have a backup plan in case it’s full. The track page doesn’t give booking or fee details; check the hut page on the DOC website before you go.
Getting There and Preparing for the Climb
The track begins at the end of Kiriwhakapapa Road, which DOC places 7 km from State Highway 2 and around 16 km north of Masterton. The start is beside Kiriwhakapapa Campsite.
There is no water on the climb, including no side streams, so DOC recommends at least 2 litres per person plus high-energy snacks. Expect a rough, unformed track with scrambling up steep slopes, and allow extra time, as some people take longer than 2–3 hours.
The Tararua Ranges are known for wild, fast-changing weather, so pack warm and waterproof clothing even when the forecast is good. If the side stream is flooded, wait for it to drop or turn back. Use Plan My Walk to check the forecast and gear list, and leave your intentions with someone you trust.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Tararua Forest Park: the wider park, Blue Range Hut and other huts, and park-wide alerts.
Plan My Walk: a free planner for weather, alerts and gear lists before a backcountry trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to reach Blue Range Hut?
DOC times it at 2–3 hours from Kiriwhakapapa Road end, but says some people take longer.
How steep is it?
Very. The track gains around 650 m in 3.36 km, with scrambling up steep slopes using tree roots for holds.
Is there water on the way?
No. DOC says there is no water on the climb and recommends carrying at least 2 litres per person.
How many bunks does Blue Range Hut have?
Four. It’s a DOC Standard hut with mattresses, heating, a non-flush toilet and untreated tap water.
Where does the track start?
At the end of Kiriwhakapapa Road beside Kiriwhakapapa Campsite, around 16 km north of Masterton.
Can I take my dog?
DOC’s rule is: dogs allowed, keep dog under control at all times.
Can I carry on to Cow Creek Hut?
Yes. Near the top of Blue Range, the left-hand track goes to Cow Creek Hut in the Waingawa River valley, 4.61 km away.
Is the track open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alert for the track. Check the DOC page for current alerts before you go.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.