Studholme Saddle Hut

Studholme Saddle Hut is a 4-bunk backcountry hut in Kaweka Forest Park on the western side of the main Kaweka Range, south of Kaweka J. Built in 1969 and relocated to its current site in April 2024, it sits at about 1,240 m in a tributary of Kiwi Creek, with beech forest around the hut and exposure to strong winds and harsh weather typical of high points.

Inside, the hut is set up for basic self-catering: a wood burner for cooking, mattresses, table and seating, and a non-flush long-drop toilet. Water comes from a stream supply, and there’s a meat safe; there’s also a bench top plus tools listed for day-to-day hut upkeep (axe, shovel, broom).

Use is straightforward: no bookings are required and stays are first come, first served. You need to buy a Standard Hut Ticket for each night and place it in the honesty box, or use a Backcountry Hut Pass. Fees are listed for adults and youth (rates change from 1 July 2026).

Access is by tramping from several car parks. A commonly used approach is from Makahu Saddle Carpark (about 3 hours). Other described routes include Mackintosh Carpark via Mackintosh Track (about 8 km) and approaches via Cameron Carpark and Lakes Carpark (the latter via Rogue Ridge, for experienced trampers only).

Before you go, pack for remote weather and wind exposure; poled route travel can cross sub-alpine tops between about 1,300–1,700 m, and conditions on the Kaweka main tops can be severe. If you plan to hunt in the area, an online permit is required, and dogs in the park are restricted to permitted types and certifications.