Whangaehu Hut

The trip to Whangaehu Hut is off track and challenging. The unmarked route to the hut travels over an exposed mountain landscape, on steep, uneven and rocky surfaces. It is only suitable for people with alpine skills, equipment and experience.

The weather can change suddenly – be prepared for all conditions. Adverse weather conditions are common, including high winds, snow, ice, whiteouts/low visibility and freezing temperatures. Snow can turn to ice underfoot. The surface freezes quickly in the afternoon and becomes extremely slippery. Plan ahead, and make sure you are prepared to walk out in different conditions than the walk in. Carry warm, waterproof clothing and survival equipment at all times of year. Alpine snow gear list Check the Tongariro National Park weather forecast – NIWA website

In the winter months (May to November) additional hazards are present. You need to: know how to use crampons and an ice axe have the equipment, skills and experience to prevent a slide on icy terrain have the clothing for sub-zero temperatures and be able to survive if the weather gets worse have the knowledge and equipment to navigate without track markers in low visibility and heavy snow be able to tell when the weather or snow/ice conditions make it unsafe to proceed The routes to Whangaehu Hut and up Mount Ruapehu travel through avalanche terrain know where avalanches are a risk and be able to rescue someone if an avalanche occurs. Read about avalanche risk in Tongariro National Park check the New Zealand Avalanche Advisory for Tongariro National Park .