Kahikatea Lodge
A brand-new backcountry hut in the Waianakarua Scenic Reserve, nestled atop Kahikatea Ridge between Ōamaru and Dunedin.
A brand-new backcountry hut nestled in the Waianakarua Scenic Reserve, Kahikatea Lodge sits atop Kahikatea Ridge between Ōamaru and Dunedin. Conceived and built through a passionate five-year effort by the North Otago Branch of the New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association, this hut officially opened in August 2023 as a public accommodation available to hunters, trampers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The hut serves as a safe retreat for hunters (especially during deer “roar” season), trampers, and those wanting a rugged, bush-land experience. It offers shelter from changeable weather and is celebrated for being a true labour of love project.
Built by dedicated NZDA volunteers under the leadership of Barry Wilson, in partnership with DOC and supported by the Backcountry Trust, Otago Community Trust, and B A & L A Wilson Family Trust, the project cost around NZ$100,000. It involved extensive planning, securing consents and assessments, and even transporting materials by helicopter. The Department of Conservation deemed the build quality excellent during their inspection.
Address: Waianakarua Scenic Reserve, Otago (south of Ōamaru, between Ōamaru and Dunedin)
GPS: approx. Lat –45.2716, Lon 170.6576; elevation ~505 m
Access: A steep, blazed trail starting near Mt Misery Road. Approachable with moderate fitness in about 1.5 hours. Helicopter access is also possible from Herbert.
The hike is short but fairly steep, with track narrows, a creek crossing, and potentially slippery conditions after rain or snow.
Bunk Room: 6 bunks (plus space for extra mattresses)
Heating & Lighting: Well-insulated, double-glazed hut with solar lighting, USB charging and a wood-fired stove
Toilet: Composting toilet with solar lighting—clean and odor-free
Water: Collected from roof into water tanks; backups installed
Others: Meat-safe storage available
The hut serves as a safe retreat for hunters (especially during deer “roar” season), trampers, and those wanting a rugged, bush-land experience.
It offers shelter from changeable weather and is celebrated for being a true labour of love project.
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Pricing per Night
Hut: $25 per adult, $12.50 per child.
Campsite: $10 per adult, $5 per child.
Active NZDA members receive a 10% discount.
