Hump Ridge, Waitutu
Waitutu Forest is part of Fiordland National Park.
It covers a series of terraces and low ridges created by glaciers and rivers. Near the coast you'll find dense forests of rimu, miro, Hall’s tōtara and rātā. The lower terraces are mainly podocarp and silver beech, while the higher terraces are dominated by yellow-silver pine.
Waitutu is the location of the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track and the challenging South Coast Track. It is also a popular area for hunting and fishing.
The history of Waitutu goes back to visits by early Māori. The natural history features include striking rock towers, three lakes of glacial origin, silver and mountain beech, many native birds and dolphins, fur seals and occasionally whales on the coast.
South Coast Track and Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track are located in Waitutu. You can also hunt and fish in the area.
You can stay in DOC-managed huts and campsites on tracks in Waitutu. All huts on the Waitutu Tracks are standard huts, supplied with mattresses, running water and toilet facilities.
How to get to Waitutu and safety guidelines for going into Waitutu. The tramping tracks are challenging and you need to be prepared.
Find out about hunting on DOC-managed lands in Southland.
Fiordland National Park is a vast, remote wilderness and heart of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
NZ weather
New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
