Manuka Hut

The place

Basic DOC hut in Hakatere Conservation Park (Canterbury), at 790 m, on the Te Araroa Trail route. Free; Te Araroa walkers: separate registration and Trail Pass purchase required. Important: **flood risk during heavy rain** — monitor river levels during storms and be prepared to move to higher ground. Limited firewood on site, do not cut vegetation. Vehicle access along the edge of the farm track before the gate (31 km from Mount Somers via Ashburton Gorge Road, then 8 km via Hakatere Heron Road). Walking access 4.5 km from Lake Emily car park (1 h 30). Mountain bikes and horses: 2.5 km route via the Stour River (avoid the steep Te Araroa section).