Why not stay a night?
If you're prepared and have some gear, why not stay overnight and experience the magic of Fiordland at night. Sit on the beach at Hope Arm and take a swim or watch the stars from Back Valley before telling a few tales in the hut.
Huts in the area
Staying in a walking hut is a quintessential New Zealand experience. The network of huts is extensive and makes for an impressive network throughout the National Parks and beyond. There is a variety of types but most are basic, providing good shelter and generally have some good simple back-country amenities. Many have bunks, long-drop toilet and some form of water available nearby. There's often a woodburner for heating too but you will need everything else you would otherwise take camping.
Back Valley Hut
This 4 bunk hut is a quaint historic gem with wood stove and mattresses. There is a rain water tank but you are advised to boil water. A creek nearby also provides water. There is no booking for this hut.
Hope Arm Hut
This 12 bunk hut has a wood stove and mattresses. There is a rain water tank but you are advised to boil water. There is no booking for this hut.
Camping
Camping is best done at Hope Arm where there is a DOC campground. The sandy area is well sheltered with amazing views over the lake. There is a long drop toilet available here too.
Fees
All huts and camping at the DOC campgrounds require a hut ticket or pass. These can be obtained from DOC in Te Anau. More information on their website.
Access
River Taxi crossing from Manapouri. To make your Manapouri walking tracks river crossing bookings, you can call us on 0800 456 457 or +64 3 249 7777
Access to these walks on the Manapouri Track is by River Water Taxi crossings. Scheduled departures daily during the Summer at 10:00am, 11:00am and 3:00pm, 4:00pm.
On demand departures for groups are available by prior booking