Lane Cove Hut
Lane Cove Hut is a Department of Conservation serviced backcountry hut in the Whangaroa area, tucked in a sheltered arm of Pekapeka Bay. It sleeps 16 and is booked online in advance. You’ll need to bring a portable stove, food and drink, a sleeping bag, and cooking utensils; you may also want to boil water before drinking.
The hut sits at the western end of Pekapeka Bay (the Western Arm). Access is by boat from Totara North or Whangāroa township, and at high tide you can unload close to the hut; water taxis may be available. There’s also a walking route on the Wairakau Stream Track from Campbell Road, Totara North (listed as intermediate), with muddy sections, uneven ground, and stream crossings that can flood in heavy rain.
The hut is locked; you receive an access code in your booking confirmation. Fees apply (including the ability to use Backcountry Hut Passes), outdoor fireplace use is available all year except during restricted fire season, and no tents or temporary structures are permitted in the reserve. Scrub all soil off shoes and gear, use the cleaning stations, and keep to the track. Pets are not permitted, and hunting is by permit only.