Pararaki Hut
Pararaki Hut is a Department of Conservation standard six-bunk backcountry hut in the Wairarapa region, located in Aorangi Forest Park. It was built in 1964 by the New Zealand Forest Service for pest animal control work, and later used by Landcare Research during their possum research programme over about 25 winters.
Facilities include an open fire, mattresses, and toilets (pit latrine), while drinking water is not provided. Use is first come, first served with no bookings required, but you do need a Standard Hut Ticket for each night (or a Backcountry Hut Pass) and fees apply through 30 June 2026; adult stays are $10 per night and youth (5–17) are $5 per night (0–4 is free). If you’re approaching the hut, a common option is the Cape Palliser Road end via Pararaki Stream (about 3–4 hr / 12 km). Longer alternatives listed include routes from Washpool Hut via Aorangi Crossing and from Kawakawa Hut via Aorangi Crossing, both described as multi-hour walks.