Tarn Ridge Hut
Tarn Ridge Hut is a backcountry hut operated by the Department of Conservation in Tararua Forest Park (Wairarapa, Wellington/Kapiti). It offers shelter only; the hut was water-damaged from a storm in 2020 and, while open, DOC recommends using alternative accommodation if possible. Use is first come, first served—no standard bookings are required—and it has 16 bunk beds.
Facilities include an untreated water source with a water tank that needs the lid lifted to access water, and pit latrine toilets. A fireplace is provided. The hut is located below Girdlestone (1546 m) and serves as an overnight base on the Northern Crossing. Hut use involves fees: adult $10 per night (18+), youth $5 per night (5–17), and children/infants (0–4) free; a Standard Hut Ticket is used via an honesty box for each night (or a Backcountry Hut Pass can cover unlimited use at most standard and serviced huts for 12 months).
Approach context from nearby hut options (approximate times): Mitre Flats Hut ~4 hr, Arete Forks Hut ~4–5 hr, Arete Hut ~3–4 hr, Carkeek Hut via Tarn Ridge ~5 hr, and Dorset Ridge Hut ~2 hr; typical trips to Tarn Ridge Hut run about 3–5 days (listed as Expert difficulty).