Leaning Lodge Hut
Located in Rock and Pillar Conservation Area in the Otago region
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Introduction
This alpine hut is located on the Rock and Pillar Range in Coastal Otago.Facilities
- Lighting
- Mattresses
- Toilets - non-flush
- Water from stream
Seasonal restrictions
Hut is open year-round – bookings required.
Snow and ice in winter. At times during winter snow and ice can be expected higher up on the access track and about the hut.
The hut is owned by the Otago Tramping and Mountaineering Club (OTMC) and managed by the Leaning Lodge Trust.
Altitude: 1220 m
Lighting – solar
- The hut must be left clean and tidy and all rubbish taken with you.
- Ensure you allow time to arrive at the hut well before dark, so you can find water and the location of the toilet.
- Fill in the hut book with the names, date of stay and intentions so if required Search and Rescue parties can use the information if your plans change once you have started your trip
Water
Available from a stream nearby. Boil all water before use.
History
The original hut was built by the Otago Ski Club in 1958, and named Leaning Lodge on account of its sloping floor. Then, the site was known as the Castle Rock ski field. A rope tow and tow shed were also built then.
The new hut was opened in 2024.
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $16 per night
- Child/Youth (5–17 years): $8 per night
- Infant (0–4 years): Free
Backcountry Hut Passes and Backcountry Hut Tickets cannot be used at this hut.
Bookings
Booking are required all year.
Starts from the DOC carpark at Kinvara Station. Up what looks like a private driveway just south of Lug Creek, about 9 km north of from Middlemarch.
The carpark is not marked from the main highway.
Follow Kinvara Road track.
Take the left-hand turn off at 7.8 km and follow the road for a further 1.2 km to the hut.
Tracks to this hut
Location
Rock and Pillar Conservation Area
Topo50 map sheet CD16, E1372100, N4966354
The hut is in an alpine environment. Weather is subject to rapid change, and conditions may be icy / slippery. Crampons may be required.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| DOC Customer Service Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0800 275 362 |
| dunedinoffice@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | DOC offices |