Hunts Creek Hut

Hunts Creek Hut is a four-bunk backcountry hut in a tussock clearing at about 880 m in Hunts Creek basin, with the Barron and Hunts ranges around it. This is an overnight destination for experienced trampers, not a casual stop: the approach is a long, advanced trip. The clearing is visible from Hunt Saddle, but the hut itself doesn't appear until the last roughly 100 m.

Start at Kelly Creek car park on SH73. Follow Carroll Hut Track briefly, then climb beside Kellys Creek and traverse above a gorge. The route uses creek and riverbed, climbs to Hunt Saddle, and drops over two large scree slopes to the hut. The 13 km return route is rated advanced and takes about eight hours; expect rough ground and route-finding through head-high tussock. Check the current forecast and track information, and take warm clothing and extra food.

Expect four bunks with mattresses, a wood burner, basic cooking gear and a non-flush toilet. There’s no food service, so bring provisions. The tap water is untreated and must be boiled; the tap has been reported damaged before, so confirm its current state before relying on it. The hut is first come, first served with no booking, but you need a hut ticket or backcountry hut pass. The hut was built by the New Zealand Forest Service in the 1960s, and kiwi may be heard calling nearby at nightfall.