Waterfall Hut

Facilities

• Water source - River
• Heating source - Open fire

History of the hut

Waterfall Hut is an historic hut with many of its original features still intact. It is a good example of the wild animal control huts built during the New Zealand Forest Service era.

Initially named Kawhatau Hut, this hut was designed to house New Zealand Forestry Service hunters and their food stores while they battled to control the 'deer menace' that was believed to be a major contributor to mountain erosion.

The hut was built in 1961 on an old Internal Affairs tent camp, with the building materials all flown in by helicopter, The builder was Forestry Service Carpenter Jan (John) Van De Lagemaat who had immigrated from The Netherlands in the 1950's. Jan also built the D.S.A (McKinnon), Makawakawa (Diggers), Hinerua, Smiths Creek (Stream) and Middle Stream Huts.

Fees

• Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
• Youth (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
• Child/Infant (0–4 years): free

Before you go, buy Hut Tickets for each night's stay. Put these in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 12 month period.

Booking and paying | Backcountry Hut Tickets | Retailers that sell hut tickets and passes

This is a backcountry hut with no DOC track access. You will need to plan your route and navigate yourself, using aids like a map, compass and GPS. Learn navigation skills.

Location

NZTopo50 map sheet: BK36
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1866496, N5586628

Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows