Intended route up the Rapawapawai Stream from  road end seemed doubtful after heavy rain the previous day but the stream was clear and easily navigable and boots remained relativly dry with carefull choice of crossings (many).Two red Deer spotted just after entering the Forest Park boundary set the mood for the day and a very pleasant and warm trip ensued. Approx 2 hrs upstream counting off the tributaries on the Map to locate the turn off to Keretaki Hut, and pondering the possibility I had missed it when I spotted the DOC sign somewhat overgrown on the true left bank.

The climb out up the ridge is best described as a typical Ruahine ridge steep and brief ! The signposted time to Keretaki from the stream of 1 hr is close and a pleasant lunch was had here before returning via the same route. The track to  Mangaatua catchment (Billygoat)was spotted on the return downstream but is not sign posted and easy to miss traveling upstream. Total time walking approx 6.5 hrs
Cheers.