Liverpool Track

From Raspberry Creek car park, follow the West Matukituki Track through farmland and river flats to Aspiring Hut (9 km, about 2–2.5 hours), then continue through bush to Pearl Flat (a further 5 km, about 1.5 hours). At Pearl Flat, turn onto Liverpool Track, cross the swing bridge over Liverpool Stream, and climb 1 km through bush, rock slabs, shingle and tussock to Liverpool Hut (about 2–2.5 hours). DOC lists 6 hours 30 minutes one way for the complete route; the return is via the same track. There is no track beyond Liverpool Hut.

DOC classifies Liverpool Track as an advanced tramping track. The upper climb is steep, technical and often slippery, with sections where hands are needed on rock and tree roots. Stay on the poled route near the hut: when the hut comes into view, continue to the knoll before descending rather than sidling across steep terrain. Boots with good grip and poles are useful.

Raspberry Creek car park is 54 km west of Wānaka on the Wānaka–Mount Aspiring Road. The last 30 km are gravel and several fords in the final 10 km can rise after rain, sometimes becoming impassable; the road can also suffer washouts. Liverpool Hut is a serviced alpine hut with 10 bunks. Bookings are required during the summer season; outside that period it is first come, first served. Carry food, water and suitable overnight gear.

The approach follows the Matukituki Valley with river, farmland, native forest, waterfalls and large mountain walls. The hut gives broad views toward Tititea/Mt Aspiring and the valley.

Summer to early autumn generally offers the most settled conditions, but this is an alpine route and conditions can change year-round. Start early so the steep upper section is completed in good light. Allow an extra day and carry an emergency beacon for this remote overnight route.