Venison Tops Hut (Tira Lodge)

The place

DOC hut also known as Tira Lodge, located at 1430 m in Kaweka Forest Park (Hawke's Bay), on a broad alpine plateau with panoramic views of neighbouring parks. Twelve bunks with mattresses spread across two rooms. Facilities: wood/coal burner, rainwater tank, food storage, dry toilet, dog kennel. Fee 10 NZD adult and 5 NZD for ages 5-17 per night, free below that, payable with standard tickets or an annual Backcountry Hut Pass. No booking. Access on foot via three routes of roughly 9 to 10 hours (via Makino Hut, via Middle Hill Hut, or from Makahu Saddle). Helipad 40 m away. Neighbouring huts: Ballard Hut (2 hours east), Mangaturutu Hut (2 hours north), Rocks Ahead Hut (2.5 hours south). Coordinates NZTM2000 E1886660, N5650529.