Central Whirinaki Hut

About this hut

Central Whirinaki Hut is a large 25 bunk hut that is tucked into a clearing of beech trees alongside the Whirinaki River.

It has a few living area platforms and a large kitchen area with a good fire. The hut doesn't have a constant supply of firewood, so pack to be prepared for no firewood. 

It is the only serviced hut on the Whirinaki circuit and surrounding area’s circuit known as the “Te Hoe Circuit”. You can reach it from Plateau Road (Taupo end) or River Road (near Murupara).

This is a popular overnight alternative on the Whirinaki Track. The track follows a very smooth path with views of the Whirinaki River with crystal clear waters and sightings of the whio (blue duck) as well as the sound of tui and robins. There are amazing podocarp trees that include rimu, tōtara, matai and miro.

Sited in a large grassy clearing on the Whirinaki River, Central Whirinaki Hut is the gateway to Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne. It is the most spacious hut in the Whirinaki. 

Facilities

Heating, Mattresses, Toilets - non-flush, Water from tap - not treated, boil before use, Water supply

Fees and bookings

Fees

Hut

1 May - 30 September

• Adult (18+ years): $25 per night
• Child/youth (5–17 years): $12.50 per night
• Infant (0–4 years): free

1 October - 30 April

Weekdays:

• Adult (18+ years): $28 per night
• Child/youth (5–17 years): $14 per night
• Infant (0–4 years): free

Weekends:

• Adult (18+ years): $32 per night
• Child/youth (5–17 years): $16 per night
• Infant (0–4 years): free

1 December - 29 February

Weekdays:

• Adult (18+ years): $29 per night
• Child/youth (5–17 years): $17.50 per night
• Infant (0–4 years): free

Weekends:

• Adult (18+ years): $34 per night
• Child/youth (5–17 years): $17 per night
• Infant (0–4 years): free

Camping

Fees to camp at the hut are 50% of the hut fees. 

Fees to camp at the hut

The campsite fee is 50% of the hut fee. 

Before you go, buy Hut Tickets for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass or Campsite Pass. 

Trails

Central Whirinaki Hut can be accessed on the trails Whirinaki Long Loop and Mangamate Loop from our trail directory.