Hawke's Bay

Within Gwavas Forest, public access to Makororo Road and Wakarara Road (for Yeomans Track, Ellis Hut and Poutaki Hut) is closed due to logging operations (Monday-Friday). The roads are open for foot access during weekends (Saturday-Sunday). This closure will be in effect until at least July 2026.

The track between Middle Hill Hut and Makino Hut (the three gorges) is closed due to extensive damage following high winds, and toppled trees. 

Piripiri Road is closed due to a road bridge failing its inspection, and requiring replacement. Piripiri Hut can still be accessed via Mid Pohangina Hut.

The entry road to Lake Tutira closest to the Tutira diary (northern entry) is closed due to flooding. The entrance closest to Napier (southern entry) is open. The road through to the Hawke's Bay Regional Council campground is soft and potholed following submersion during high lake levels. Drive with care.

Takapari Road is fully closed to all access until the end of June 2026 while maintenance work is underway.

Takapari Road is closed to vehicles due to significant damage to the road and vegetation. The road remains open to pedestrians, bikes and light vehicles all year round.  DOC is working with volunteers to repair the road so that it can be reopened to vehicles. This is a long term alert.

Access to the Lakes and Mackintosh car parks will be closed from 15 February to mid-July 2026 for a forestry operation.  Visitors on tracks to Kuripapango Hill, Mackintosh Hut and the Tutaekuri River should be aware that access beyond the public conservation land boundary into Pan Pac land isn’t permitted.  A temporary Lakes access carpark is located south of the lake at the Kuripapango/Timpson Rd intersection. Follow Timpson Road for 450 m to the start of Lakes Track.

Manawatu District Council have advised that Piripiri Road is closed due to a road-bridge failing its inspection, and requiring replacement. Piripiri Hut can still be accessed via Mid-Pohangina Hut.

Toxic bait containing 1080 was distributed in the north-western area of Ruahine Forest Park on 5 March 2026. Treatment blocks can be viewed on DOC's pesticide summary. It is not safe to hunt for food or have your dog in this area for up to 8 months. Warning signs and this web alert will be removed once the area is safe again. This operation is part of DOC's National Predator Control Programme to protect native species.

Following a significant weather event, there are several treefalls across the track to Iron Whare Hut. Proceed with caution.