Koropuku Hut

Koropuku Hut is a basic four-bunk DOC hut in the upper Koropuku Creek basin. Keep it for a proper backcountry overnight, not a quick park stop: allow 8–10 hours from Aickens Corner. DOC no longer maintains the route, and it crosses both the Ōtira and Otehake rivers. Pick a settled weather window; rain can make either ford unsafe, and you’ll want enough food to wait out high water.

The approach follows the Taramakau valley, with two river fords before the hut. Above the bushline, the route crosses cairned open tops and drops down a steep gully and scree. Poor visibility makes navigation harder, so take a GPS for the tops and allow extra time. In colder conditions, the Townsend crossing may need an ice axe.

The hut is first-come, first-served and free, with four bunks, mattresses and a long-drop toilet. A small stream nearby is the water source; it isn’t confirmed as potable, so treat it before drinking. There’s grassy space for up to three tents in front. Bring your own food and supplies; there’s no food service out here.

Koropuku is an NZFS S81 hut built in 1964. Builder Ray Forsyth added a fireplace despite the kit’s own fireplace-and-chimney plan, expecting the local wind to punish the structure. A community maintenance arrangement followed, and volunteers have kept it going: a team in February 2026 replaced the roof, lining and some framing, installed two windows and repainted the hut.

Red deer and chamois are regularly encountered in the valley. Kiwi are occasionally seen or heard near the hut, but they’re rare. That combination of a long approach and a simple shelter makes Koropuku Hut a better fit for experienced trampers who want a remote night out.