Facilities
- Water source - River
- Heating source - Open fire
History of the hut
Waterfall Hut is an historic hut with many of its original features still intact. It is a good example of the wild animal control huts built during the New Zealand Forest Service era.
Initially named Kawhatau Hut, this hut was designed to house New Zealand Forestry Service hunters and their food stores while they battled to control the 'deer menace' that was believed to be a major contributor to mountain erosion.
The hut was built in 1961 on an old Internal Affairs tent camp, with the building materials all flown in by helicopter, The builder was Forestry Service Carpenter Jan (John) Van De Lagemaat who had immigrated from The Netherlands in the 1950's. Jan also built the D.S.A (McKinnon), Makawakawa (Diggers), Hinerua, Smiths Creek (Stream) and Middle Stream Huts.
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 passes | Retailers that sell hut tickets and passes
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: BK36
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1866496, N5586628
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.
DOC Customer Service Centre
| Phone: | 0800 275 362 |
| Email: | manawatu@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: | Te Papaioea / Palmerston North Office |