Te Puia Lodge, Kaweka Forest Park

Ranger: Lauren Buchholz, Hawke’s Bay

Of the many beautiful gems in Hawke’s Bay, community ranger Lauren Buchholz says Te Puia Lodge is a favourite for one very important reason: it has its own hot pools.

“Hot pools and tramping are a perfect combo,” she says. “If you’re into fishing, you can catch dinner just metres from the front porch.”

The 26-bunk serviced hut is right next to the Mohaka River, which she says is great for cooling off in the summer or casting a line for trout.

It takes two-to-three-hours to tramp from the Makahu Road end, and the Mangatainoka Hot Springs are roughly 45 minutes past the hut.

“As a bonus, the Mangatutu Hot Springs are located at the road end itself, so you can have another soak before you leave,” Buchholz says.

The hut is a good destination for less experienced trampers. There are several nearby trails that head into the heart of Kaweka Forest Park for those wanting a tougher challenge.