Black Birch Bivouac

Located in Kaweka Forest Park in the Hawke’s Bay region

This is a basic two-bunk hut in the Hawke's Bay region.

Black Birch Bivouac is located in the eastern Kaweka Forest Park, between the Lotkow Roadend and Little's Clearing picnic area. The hut has a long drop style toilet. 

The bivvy was built in 1963 by the New Zealand Forest Service. It is situated at 1060 m altitude along the Black Birch Range, 1.5 hours from Little's Clearing. The Black Birch Range is a popular hunting area.

The natural vegetation has been threatened by the very invasive Pinus contorta. An eradication program is underway in an attempt to control this weed.

Fees

Free

The bivouac is reached after a 1.5 hour walk from Little's Clearing or 1 – 1.5 hours from Lotkow Road. 

Tramping

Black Birch Bivouac is an ideal stop-over point for weekend trips or short walks.

Kaweka Forest Park access conditions

We recommend 4WD vehicles to reduce wear on the road and safe travel.

  • Lotkow Road: The river crossings are regularly changing, check before crossing.
  • Lakes carpark is accessible via Kuripapango road. The previous access Castle Rock road is now closed due to ongoing forestry operations.
  • Lawrence Carpark access road: The last 600 m of the road is steep and not recommended for 2WD vehicles - a parking space is available before the descent. The Lawrence swing bridge has been removed.
  • Mackintosh car park is currently closed due to ongoing forestry operations. A new parking location can be located at a skid site near the closed gate (end of Kuripapango Road), this will add on 500 m walking to reach the start of the track.
  • Whittle Road: Be aware of trucks using the quarry. Give them right of way where possible. 

Tracks to this hut

Location

NZTopo50 map sheet: BJ37
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1896492, N5644080