Te Matawai Hut
Te Matawai Hut is a standard 18-bunk backcountry hut in Tararua Forest Park (Wellington/Kapiti region), managed by the Department of Conservation. It’s a straightforward base for backcountry travel, with drinking water provided as untreated water and pit latrine toilets onsite.
Overnight use is first-come, first-served—no standard bookings are required. Before you stay, buy a Standard Hut Ticket (adult or youth) for each night and place it in the honesty box at the hut; fees run for the period up to 30 June 2026, with rates changing from 1 July 2026. The hut is best accessed from the western side of Tararua Forest Park via Gladstone Road and Poads Road, and it’s on the Northern Crossing of Te Araroa—typically approached by 4–5 days of advanced/expert-level route travel.