THE HUT HIKE – Kaikoura

About the Hut Hike

The Hut Hike is situated up the Inland Road Kaikoura on a working hill country farm. The walk to the hut takes you out through farmland with a slow climb up into manuka & tussock country; the views of the seaward Kaikoura ranges and the rugged Tuku Tuku Iwi are simply stunning. On your travels, you may come across Romney ewes or angus cows who graze the backcountry. From the top saddle, you drop down to the hut, which is nestled amongst the manuka, where you can hang up your hat, put up your feet and enjoy this quiet, restful space where the only noise is the birds.

The Hut can accommodate up to 10 people comfortably, but we only take your booking so you have the hut to yourselves. We take your gear out for you, and any non-walking members of your party can be transported with the gear if necessary.

The Hut has:

Bunk Room 1

• Adjoining room with log burner, armchairs, kitchen table, and stools
• Six comfortable bunk beds, each with a pillow and a clean fitted sheet

Bunk Room 2

• Four bunks with pillows and a clean fitted sheet
• Two pull-out couches (if required)

Rustic Bathroom

• Shower and flush toilet

Fully Equipped Kitchen

• Gas stove top and BBQ
• Cups, plates, and cutlery are provided to save you having to bring anything.
• Tea, herbal tea, coffee, Milo, and sugar are provided, as well as olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Food

The hike can be self-catered or catered.

Self-Catered Option

If you prefer to self-cater, your chilly bin will be dropped off at the hut for you when we transport your gear. There is a fridge/freezer at the hut along with a gas stove top and BBQ for cooking. The hut has solar-powered lighting, but it’s advisable to bring a head torch as the toilet and shower are separate from the hut.

The Catered Option

A delicious home-cooked evening meal, consisting of locally sourced produce and home-grown beef, lamb, or venison, will be followed by dessert. Your menu options will be emailed upon booking.

The evening meal will be delivered to the hut and placed in the fridge. It may require a bit of input from you, nothing too serious, just cooking some meat on the BBQ.

You will also be provided with a simple and nutritious continental breakfast to start your day, along with home baking for morning tea.

The Hike

It is a 5 km walk from the carpark to the hut, predominantly on a grass 4WD track with a 200m elevation climb. For those looking for a slightly longer walk, you can add another 3 km, which includes a native creek section (you will get wet feet!).

A moderate level of fitness is required.

For those who are certified and want to bring their ropes and harnesses, there is an abseil a short walk from the hut if you want to have a go.

What to Bring

• Good company (essential)
• Sturdy walking shoes
• Snacks and drinks for your walk
• Sleeping bag (linen can be provided at extra cost)
• Warm and weatherproof clothing
• Towel (for your shower)
• Personal necessities (including sunscreen and basic first aid equipment)
• Optional: a walking pole (especially useful in wet conditions)
• There is cell phone coverage (you may prefer to have it switched off!)

Your luggage and food will be transported to the hut by 4WD.

Rates

• Adult per night:
  • Uncatered: $60 pp
  • Catered: $120 pp
• Children under 12 per night:
  • Uncatered: $25 pp
  • Catered: $50 pp