Kylie Bivouac
Kylie Bivouac is a two-bunk backcountry hut in Ruahine Forest Park (Hawke’s Bay), managed by the Department of Conservation. It was built in 1960 by the NZ Forest Service and sits at about 1,380 m—one of the highest bivouac spots in the park—so plan for harsh conditions even outside mid-winter, with snow, high winds, and rainfall possible year-round. Use is first come, first served with no bookings required.
Inside, the biv provides two bunk beds and has tank water supply; toilets are available as a pit latrine. The drinking water is untreated, and there’s no fireplace. Access is from Mangleton Road-end, then follow the Golden Crown Ridge Track starting behind Masters Shelter to the top of the range; from there, continue south past Park’s Peak and Upper Makaroro Huts. From Upper Makaroro Hut, head south along the ridge for 20 minutes, then down the spur for about 10 minutes to reach the signposted biv. Use is free.