The track from the Lakes Carpark to the top of Mt Kuripapango (1250 metres) is strenuous but rewarding. This track zigzags through kanuka forest to the main ridge. As the main ridge is climbed, increasingly spectacular views appear – there are views down to the lakes and east to Hawke’s Bay. Alpine flowers and tussock are scattered among the scree on top.

Alternative return route: Instead of returning to the Lakes Carpark, you can descend the southern side of Mt Kuripapango, to Cameron Carpark on the Napier Taihape road.

From the top of Mt Kuripapango, you can also continue on to Kiwi Saddle Hut and the southern end of the Kaweka Range.

Kuripapango is located 76 km from Napier on the Napier/Taihape Road. To reach the Lakes carpark, turn off the Napier-Taihape Road onto Kuripapango Road and follow the signs to Lakes carpark.

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. 

Be ready for mountain weather

This is a mountainous area. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, whiteouts, high winds on the ranges and rapidly rising water levels in rivers and streams.

Check the weather before you go. Kaweka J Summit weather forecast

Pack for all conditions and be ready for weather delays, including with an emergency shelter, spare food and a distress beacon. Packing lists

Expect a rough, slippery track

This is a backcountry tramping track and it is rough, muddy and slippery (especially after rain). It is best suited to experienced trampers with backcountry skills. You will need sturdy boots with good grip.

Fires

Extreme fire conditions can exist during summer. The park is a restricted fire area, which means permits to light fires are required all year round.

Maps

The Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) topographical maps that cover the Kaweka Forest Park are:

Topo50 map BH36 - Motutere
Topo50 map BH37 - Rangitaiki
Topo50 map BH38 - Te Haroto
Topo50 map BJ36 - Tawake Tohunga
Topo50 map BJ37 - Kuripapango
Topo50 map BJ38 - Te Pohue
Topo50 map BK37 - Tikokino