Dons Spur Track

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

This track is an old, bulldozed road and now makes an excellent tramping track to Dons Spur.

The track passes through tall, red beech forest at the head of the Donald River, then climbs gradually through thick, sub alpine vegetation to Dons Spur.

The wide track stops abruptly beside a huge, steep scree slip. From here there is an excellent outlook – north to Makahu Saddle, south into the Donald River.

Kaweka Road is located 65 km north-west of Napier. From Napier follow Puketitiri Road for 36 km before turning left into Whittle Road. Kaweka Road is the first road on the right.

Whittle Road passes partly through farmland before reaching the park entrance. Leave all gates as found.

This road may be closed at times during winter because of snow.

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.