Last updated November 2026
South Ohau Hut via Waiopehu and Dora Ridge is a long tramp in the Tararua Forest Park from Poads Road end, behind Levin, to South Ohau Hut, a DOC hut in the South Ōhau valley.
The route links three tracks: Waiopehu Track up to Waiopehu Hut and the tops, Dora Track along Dora Ridge, and Yeates Track down to the hut.
DOC grades it an Advanced tramping track and times it at 7–8 hours. On the way you pass the summits of Waiopehu (1094 m) and Twin Peak (1097 m) before reaching Richards Knob. When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alerts on the route’s own page, but check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had an alert for the Tararua Forest Park area: toxic bait containing 1080 was spread by helicopter in part of the park on 19 May 2026, with a caution period of about 8 months.
DOC lists that alert for the Poads Road to Ōtaki Forks Track, which shares this route’s start up Waiopehu Track to Richards Knob, so there may be toxic bait in the area.
Dogs are allowed on this route, and DOC’s alert says “1080 is deadly to dogs” and advises not taking dogs into the area until the caution period has ended, so check DOC’s operation map before you bring a dog.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for South Ohau Hut via Waiopehu and Dora Ridge on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Poads Road end, behind Levin, on the western side of the Tararua Forest Park
- Distance from the city
- About 45 km from Palmerston North
- Walking time
- 7–8 hr to South Ohau Hut (Waiopehu Hut is 4–5 hr from the road end)
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track (DOC grade)
- Dogs
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
- Track type
- Tramping route over the tops using Waiopehu, Dora and Yeates tracks
- Huts
- Waiopehu Hut and South Ohau Hut (DOC huts)
- High points
- Waiopehu 1094 m, Twin Peak 1097 m, Richards Knob 985 m
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open with a DOC alert when checked on 18 October 2026 (1080 caution period in part of Tararua Forest Park; 1080 is deadly to dogs). Check DOC before you go.
About South Ohau Hut via Waiopehu and Dora Ridge
The day begins on private farmland, which the track crosses from Poads Road to the park boundary. From there Waiopehu Track climbs to Waiopehu Hut, which DOC puts 4–5 hours from the road end. For many trampers that alone is a full day, so continuing to South Ohau Hut makes this a long, demanding trip.
Beyond Waiopehu Hut the track carries on up to the summit of Waiopehu at 1094 m, then on to Twin Peak at 1097 m, the highest of the named summits on the route. It continues to Richards Knob (985 m), where a junction sends you onto Dora Ridge.
Dora Track follows the ridge past Butcher Saddle to a junction with Yeates Track, signposted to South Ohau Hut. Yeates Track drops steeply off the ridge, and DOC allows around 1.5 hours from the junction to the hut. South Ohau Hut sits near where the South Ōhau River meets Butchers Creek.
This is a route for fit, experienced trampers comfortable with long days, steep descents and changeable conditions on the Tararua tops. Splitting it with a night at Waiopehu Hut is one way to make it more manageable.
Alternative Route via Six Discs Track and Gable End Ridge
DOC describes a second way to Richards Knob. Turn off Waiopehu Track onto Six Discs Track and descend into the Ōhau valley, cross the bridge over Blackwater Stream, then climb Gable End Ridge to Richards Knob. From there you follow Dora Ridge and Yeates Track to South Ohau Hut as above.
Track Conditions and Preparation
DOC describes a typical Tararua backcountry track: rough, uneven and full of tree roots to scramble over, and it suggests planning extra time in case the trip takes longer than expected. The Tararua Forest Park is known for wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather, so always check the forecast and pack warm, waterproof clothing even if it looks fine.
DOC recommends carrying a torch, spare food, an emergency shelter and a distress beacon. If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross them, and if the water is up, turn back or wait for it to drop. Use Plan My Walk to check the forecast and gear list, and leave your intentions with a trusted contact.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: South Ohau Hut via Waiopehu and Dora Ridge: 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, Waiopehu and South Ohau 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 South Ohau Hut?
DOC times the route at 7–8 hours from Poads Road end.
Can I stop at Waiopehu Hut?
Yes. Waiopehu Hut is on the route, 4–5 hours from Poads Road end, so it can break the trip into two days.
How hard is the route?
It’s an Advanced tramping track with a long climb, travel over Waiopehu and Twin Peak, and a steep descent on Yeates Track.
Where does it start?
At Poads Road end, behind Levin. The first part crosses private farmland to the park boundary.
Is there another way to Richards Knob?
Yes. DOC describes a route via Six Discs Track, the Blackwater Stream bridge and Gable End Ridge.
Can I take my dog?
DOC’s rule is: dogs allowed, keep dog under control at all times.
Where exactly is South Ohau Hut?
Near the confluence of the South Ōhau River and Butchers Creek, about 1.5 hours below the Yeates Track junction.
Is the route open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alert for the route. 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.