Hike to Sunrise Hut

While on my trip in New Zealand I hiked to many of the amazing mountain huts. I loved them all for comfort, stunning views, and great experience. Most overnight trips require either reservation on doc.govt.nz website, some are first come first serve basis, as long as you have the ticket with you. Sunrise hut can be reserved online for 15NZ$. because it's relatively easy it tends to be a popular family tramp. When I did it (in a season) there were only 2 other backpackers there with me. The trail starts at North Block Road End Trailhead, not far from town Ongaonga. To get there you will pass through private property so make sure you lock the gates, and watch out for cattle. Although it's a short drive (20 miles from town), it takes about an hour due to rough gravel road, and slower speed. Once you get to the trailhead get yours stuff and begin 3 mile hike to the hut.

I did this trek on really foggy day, so I didn't see any views till the next morning. The trail climbs steadily up, but I would describe it as moderate. About  1.8 miles in, you will get to a turn for another hut Waipawa Forks Hut, keep going straight. Along the way you will see interesting signposts describing the vegetation in the area. Like most flora in New Zealand, you will see many endemic plants along the trail. 

Like most huts in New Zealand this one provides an outhouse, running water in the kitchen, common area na bunkbeds. There is also cozy wood stove.

As name suggests hut offers some of the most beautiful sunrise views in Hawke's Bay. You can hike higher up above the hut or just watch the sunrise from the deck. Although the hike isn't very steep you might be surprised to wake up in the morning above the clouds. If the weather’s clear, the main Ruanhine range lies before you. Enjoy!

Trailhead coordinates:-39.797393564066, 176.2022324907303

Distance 6 miles round trip