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Ruahine Forest Park, Rangiwahia
12.5 km
48 hours
900 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you’re looking for a tramp that truly captures the rugged, untamed spirit of the North Island’s high country, look no further than Deadmans Track. Nestled in the southern reaches of the Ruahine Forest Park near the quiet settlement of Rangiwahia, this 12.5km loop is a legendary local adventure. It isn't just a walk in the park; it’s a challenging, two-day immersion into some of the most dramatic landscapes the Manawatū region has to offer.
Often completed as a loop in conjunction with the more manicured Rangiwahia Hut Track, this journey takes you from the deep, cool shadows of ancient beech forest to the wild, wind-swept tops of the Whanahuia Range. It’s a track of two halves: one side offers a well-graded climb to one of the region's most popular huts, while the other—the namesake Deadmans Track—provides a steep, muddy, and exhilarating descent that will test your knees and your navigation skills alike.
Your journey begins at the Renfrew Roadend carpark. For the first leg, most trampers choose to head up the Rangiwahia Hut Track. This section is a delight, immediately plunging you into the lush, dappled light of a healthy beech forest. The gradient here is steady and well-managed, making it the "easier" part of the loop. As you wind your way upwards, the sound of rushing water grows louder until you reach the iconic arched wooden bridge. Spanning a dizzying ravine over the Mangahuia Stream, it’s a feat of backcountry engineering and a perfect spot to catch your breath. Nearby, a charming waterfall spills over the rocks, adding to the ngahere (forest) magic.
After about two to three hours of climbing, the trees begin to shrink and thin, eventually giving way to subalpine scrub and then the open tussock lands of the Whanahuia Range. Here, you’ll find Rangiwahia Hut. Perched at 1,320 metres, this 20-bunk serviced hut is a welcome sight. On a clear day, the views from the deck are nothing short of world-class. You can look west across the rolling farmland of the Manawatū, and if the weather gods are smiling, the volcanic peaks of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe will reveal themselves on the northern horizon, glowing pink at sunset.
The second day is where the "Deadmans" portion of the adventure truly begins. Leaving the comfort of the hut, you’ll continue your ascent toward the Mangahuia Trig. At 1,583 metres, this is the highest point of the loop and offers a staggering 360-degree vista of the Ruahine interior—a sea of jagged ridges and deep valleys that feel completely untouched by time.
Parking is available at the Renfrew Roadend carpark, which serves as the trailhead for both Deadmans Track and Rangiwahia Hut Track. To reach it, travel past the villages of Kimbolton and Rangiwahia, then continue along Te Para Para Road and onto Renfrew Road, following it to its end. Be aware that you may need to open and close a couple of gates as you drive through farmland to reach the carpark. The carpark is of good size and includes a DOC toilet. As it is a remote location, it is advisable to lock your vehicle.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
17km away
A friendly country pub at the foot of the Ruahine Ranges, perfect for a post-hike cold drink and hearty meal. Specialises in Southern BBQ-style cooking with house-smoked meats like brisket and ribs, offering a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating.
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Loop
From the trig, the route follows the exposed ridge line, marked by poles. This is classic Ruahine tramping: wide-open spaces, golden tussock, and a feeling of being on top of the world. However, the descent via Deadmans Track is where the "hard" difficulty rating earns its keep. The track drops steeply back toward the carpark, and unlike the groomed path you took on the way up, this section can be notoriously muddy and overgrown. You’ll need a good level of fitness and careful foot placement as you navigate the slippery terrain and the transitioning vegetation. It’s a physical challenge, but the sense of accomplishment when you finally step back onto the flat ground of the carpark is immense.
The arched wooden bridge is undoubtedly a highlight of the lower forest section. It’s incredibly photogenic and serves as a great milestone early in the tramp. Just past the bridge, the small waterfall provides a serene spot for a quick snack.
Once you break out onto the tops, the Mangahuia Trig is the undisputed crown jewel. Standing at the summit, you feel the true scale of the Ruahine Ranges. The contrast between the soft, rolling tussock and the sharp, rocky escarpments is breathtaking.
For many, the Rangiwahia Hut itself is a highlight. Even if you aren't staying the night, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a coffee with a view that rivals any five-star hotel. The sight of the sun dipping below the horizon from this elevation is something you won't soon forget.
To find the trailhead, you’ll need to head toward the rural heart of the Manawatū. From Palmerston North or Feilding, travel through the picturesque villages of Kimbolton and Rangiwahia. Follow Te Para Para Road, which eventually turns into Renfrew Road.
Drive to the very end of Renfrew Road. Be prepared for a bit of authentic rural New Zealand driving; you’ll likely need to open and close a couple of farm gates as the road passes through private land before reaching the Renfrew Roadend carpark. The carpark is reasonably spacious and features a DOC toilet. Since this is a remote location, please remember to lock your vehicle and keep any valuables out of sight.
The Ruahine Forest Park is a haven for native birdlife, and the transition through different altitudinal zones means you’ll see a variety of species. In the lower beech forest, the inquisitive Pīwakawaka (Fantail) will likely follow you, darting between branches to catch insects stirred up by your boots. You’ll also hear the melodic chime of the Tūī and the heavy beat of Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon) wings overhead.
Keep an ear out for the high-pitched "see-see-see" of the Grey Warbler (Riroriro), often heard but rarely seen. If you are very lucky—and very quiet—you might spot the New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea) soaring over the alpine tops, or hear the whistle of the rare Whio (Blue Duck) in the rocky streams below. Early morning is the best time for birdwatching, as the "dawn chorus" in the Ruahine bush is a spectacular experience.
Note: This track is not dog-friendly and is generally not suitable for young children due to the steep, technical nature of the Deadmans descent.
The Ruahine Ranges hold significant spiritual and cultural importance to local iwi, serving as a traditional source of food and a landmark for navigation. Geologically, these mountains are part of the axial range of the North Island, primarily composed of uplifted greywacke. They are known for their ruggedness—unlike the volcanic peaks to the north, the Ruahines are folded, faulted, and heavily eroded, creating the steep "razorback" ridges that make tramping here so unique.
The area around Rangiwahia was once a bustling center for the timber industry, but today, conservation is the focus. Local groups work alongside the Department of Conservation to maintain the tracks and manage pests, ensuring that the native bush and birdlife continue to thrive.
Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your backyard or a tourist seeking a true Kiwi backcountry experience, Deadmans Track offers a raw, beautiful, and deeply rewarding journey into the heart of the Ruahines.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Falco novaeseelandiae
Also known as Kārearea. Fast and agile raptor found in both forest and open country.
Best time: Year-round
Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos
An endangered native duck uniquely adapted to fast-flowing rivers, often seen foraging among the rocks.
Best time: Year-round
32km away
Situated in the heart of Kimbolton Village, this cafe offers a peaceful and welcoming country atmosphere with a range of fresh, in-house made cabinet food, gourmet pizzas, and good coffee. It's a great spot for families and a popular stop-off.