Image: DOC
Watchdog Hut.
Watchdog Hut

Located in Rangitata and Rakaia Rivers area in the Canterbury region

This is a standard six-bunk hut in the Mid and South Canterbury area.

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
  • Youth (5–17 years): $5 per night
  • Child/Infant (0–4 years): free

Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, yellow for youth) for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 12 month period.

About hut tickets and passesRetailers that sell hut tickets and passes

The formed 4WD access to the Clyde River crosses Erewhon Station. Contact them for access permission.

This is a backcountry hut with no DOC track access. You will need to plan your route and navigate yourself, using aids like a map, compass and GPS. Learn navigation skills.

Location

NZTopo50 map sheet: BW18
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1420944, N5191496

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely