Te Uru Taumatua started work to remove 44 backcountry huts from Te Urewera in October 2022.
Whanganui Hut on the Lake Waikaremoana Track has been decommissioned. Sandy Bay Hut, Panekire Hut, Waiopaoa Hut, Marauiti Hut and Waiharuru Hut are unaffected.
Note that there will be no toilets or water facilities retained at the decommissioned hut sites. Helicopter landing sites are not affected.
Map of removed huts
Go to the map on the Ngāi Tūhoe website.
- On the key on the right side of the map, select 'Huts' under 'Points of interest'.
- On the scale on the left side of the map, zoom into the area of interest using the + button.
- Hut icons on the map will show which huts have been removed.
- Click the hut icon to view a pop-up with information about the hut.
- Huts are also listed on the left of the map - click links for more information about the hut.
Information for visitors to Te Urewera
Visitors heading into Te Urewera should visit the Ngāi Tūhoe website to check for alerts and/or speak to the staff at the Te Urewera Visitor Centre.
Visitors to the backcountry should carry a good shelter such as a tent, a warm sleeping bag, plenty of warm and waterproof clothing, and all other gear that they need to be self-sufficient.
We strongly recommend carrying a distress beacon when visiting remote areas with no mobile reception such as Te Urewera.
Gear lists for tramping and hunting.
How Ngāi Tūhoe and DOC work together
Te Urewera is recognised in New Zealand law as a living person. Te Urewera is spoken for and governed by the Te Urewera Board. Care for Te Urewera, including the tracks and facilities, is carried out by Te Uru Taumatua – Ngāi Tūhoe’s operational entity.
DOC provides support and skills, particularly training, where wanted and needed by Te Urewera Board and Tūhoe, and contributes to resourcing.
More information
Learn more on Ngāi Tūhoe website.
Visitors can also phone Ngāi Tūhoe on +64 6 837 3803 or email teureweravc@ngaituhoe.iwi.nz for information.