Backcountry accommodation
New Zealand has over 900 backcountry huts and more than 80 backcountry campsites offering a range of facilities.
Many hunters take advantage of basic huts or bivvies which are free to stay in, some of which may have a meat safe and/or dog kennels located away from the hut.
Hunters at the historic Shute's Hut,
Ruahine Forest Park
To pay for hut accommodation you need to purchase a Backcountry Hut Pass or Backcountry Hut Tickets from your local DOC visitor centre or area office.
Hut users' code:
- Keep huts clean and tidy - as you would like to find them. Leave muddy boots outside
- Take care using wood burners. Only use dead wood, keep fire contained, never leave it unattended - it can burn the hut down. Make sure fire is extinguished before leaving. Conserve gas when using gas heaters and cookers
- Share huts with others. Be considerate, make room for late comers and keep quiet if others are sleeping
- Carry it in, carry it out. Take all your rubbish with you. Pick up rubbish you come across. Recycle your rubbish
- No smoking in huts
- Follow the Arms Code - always unload firearms before reaching a hut, never leave firearms unattended
- Dogs not allowed in huts
- Always pay hut fees
- Before leaving close doors and windows securely
- Tramping clubs and other groups do regular hut maintenance work. Think about volunteering some of your time and effort.
- It's a great way to meet people and you're sure to have fun!
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