Big Hopwood Burn Hut

Big Hopwood Burn Hut is a basic, single-bunk backcountry hut in Hāwea Conservation Park, run by the Department of Conservation in the Wanaka/Makarora area. Use is free and no bookings are required—stay on a first-come, first-served basis.

The hut has a mattress, a fireplace, and toilets with pit-latrine disposal. Because there’s no DOC track access, you’ll need to plan your route and navigate independently (map, compass, and GPS); the hut page also advises against attempting unbridged river or side-stream crossings if conditions are unsafe, and to turn back or wait if you can’t find safe entry and exit points.

Official website