Tailings Hut
Tailings Hut is a 12-bunk backcountry hut in Oteake Conservation Park (Central Otago), run by the Department of Conservation. Use is on a first-come, first-served basis—no bookings are required. The hut has a fireplace and it’s a good idea to bring wood; the surrounding tussock country has few trees.
Getting there is typically by 4WD: the track is open to vehicles between Labour weekend and 30 April, but it can close earlier if it’s susceptible to damage. The trip from the start of Oteake Conservation Park to the hut is about a 2-hour drive, but the overall approach time on the 4WD track is 4–5 hours; there are numerous river crossings and steep rocky sections, and the hut has shared use arrangements with leaseholders for mustering (contact the DOC office to check availability and track conditions).
Fees are $10 per night for adults (18+), $5 per night for youth (5–17), and free for children/infants (0–4). For stays through 30 June 2026, buy a Standard Hut Ticket for each night and put it in the honesty box at the hut. Pit latrine toilets are provided, and drinking water is not provided.