Roaring Lion Hut
Roaring Lion Hut is a Department of Conservation backcountry hut in Kahurangi National Park (Nelson/Tasman). It’s a basic 5-bunk hut in the Motueka area, used for first-come, first-served overnight stays with no bookings required. Use is free.
Approach is from Karamea Bend Hut, heading west to the Crow River Track; after about 5 minutes you cross the Leslie River, then continue up the Karamea River bed on an unmarked route for about 7 hours to the hut, which sits at the confluence of the Beautiful and Roaring Lion Rivers. Expect frequent unbridged river crossings and plan navigation for no DOC track access—carry map, compass, and GPS and be prepared to turn back if crossings are unsafe. The hut has a mattress, a fireplace, and toilet facilities with pit latrine disposal; drinking water is not provided.