Nardoo Hut

Nardoo Hut is a basic two-bunk backcountry shelter at 1,405 m in an alpine basin on the Emily Peaks. Twin tarns sit close by, with bluffs nearby and a view up the basin. It's a remote overnight destination for experienced trampers, not a quick stop. The hut is free, first come, first served, and has mattresses.

The lower creek route starts at the Ella Station DOC car park, follows an old 4WD track through the Matakitaki valley, crosses a low saddle, then climbs beside Nardoo Creek. Expect repeated stream crossings and a steep final climb. Route estimates for this approach run around seven to eight hours. Check route information before setting out; time and track conditions vary.

There's no food service. Don't count on a tap: natural water is described at the nearby tarn or creek, so bring a way to treat it. Toilet availability is unclear, so don't plan around having one.

Nardoo is an NZ Forest Service S86 design. Hut histories date its construction to either 1962 or 1965. In 2022, a conservation crew replaced its roof and window and added tie-downs.