Awaroa Hut — Local services in South Island

This is a smaller hut with only two bunk rooms and 10-15 beds per room. Keep in mind that the beds are not separated by railings or anything; for example, there are four beds all squeezed together on top.

You’ll absolutely have to wake up early to do the tidy crossing, which takes around 15 minutes. The tide crossing timetable was posted in the hut by the ranger. Almost our whole hut woke up and crossed around the same time together which was nice. Make sure you have water shoes as there are patches of water (and mud) you’ll have to walk through.

We skipped the Bark Bay hut and went all the way from Anchorage to Awaroa. It was a long day, but we shortened it by going to the pizza cafe (there is a clear sign for this turn-off on the trail). It’s not technically official, but there’s a tide crossing you can do in the late afternoon/evening from there, which is awesome — it probably cuts off an hour of up and down, as the flat walk from the pizza cafe to the hut was only half an hour or so.

Plus, nothing beats pizza after a hard day of hiking!

Also, I'd recommend doing the tide crossing, then having breakfast while watching the sunrise at Waiharakeke Bay (pics attached). It...

Great hut and friendly ranger (if you've paid your fees!). Hut has three bunk rooms with shared bunk beds. No gas or other cooking equipment (bizarre that many people haven't checked the DOC website before setting out on a hiking trip here). Woodburning Stove gives out unreal heat for its size. No lighting or electricity so you will need a torch and candles. No clothes drying rack. Beware the tidal crossing at Awaroa inlet right beside the hut - it can only be crossed at low tide. Refer doc website! You should also check the "what to pack for a great walk hike leaflet" on DOC website before coming here... three picnic tables outside. Tide comes within 8 metres of the hut at high tide. It was quiet when i stayed here and i...

First time for me in a DOC hut and I was pleasantly surprised, great facilities as there is an outdoor shower, actual flushing toilets and a drying rack for clothing. We came here quite late just outside of the great walk season and we were the only ones staying there.. also some wekas to entertain you, keep the door closed! Great place to stay if the low tide is in the morning, had a relaxing morning with sunrise at the hut while waiting for the low tide. Friendly...