Mathias Hut
Mathias Hut is a backcountry hut in the Rangitata/Rakaia Rivers area (Canterbury), run by the Department of Conservation. It’s a basic four-bunk hut used for self-service backcountry stays, including for groups who want low-support shelter in that rivers area.
Sleeping is in the hut (four bunks total), and a fire is provided. There’s a pit latrine. Bookings aren’t required; use is first come, first served. If you’re staying here, plan as route-planning and navigation are on you—there’s no DOC track access to reach the hut, so bring map, compass, and GPS. For DOC-managed river safety, avoid crossing unbridged rivers/side streams when flooded or when you can’t find safe entry/exit points; turn back or wait if conditions make it unsafe. When crossing is in doubt, stay out of the river corridor.
Maintenance here is supported by a donation arrangement: the hut asks for a $10 per person per night donation, left in the hut honesty box or arranged through the NZ Deerstalkers’ Association (Rakaia branch).