• You can see the later addition to the hut. It's a great verandah. | Helicopter Flat Hut, Kahurangi National Park
  • There's the sleeping area, but it might be tight fit with 10 bodies. | Helicopter Flat Hut, Kahurangi National Park
  • Plenty of rusty bench space, and windows. | Helicopter Flat Hut, Kahurangi National Park
  • The Karamea River is close and makes a constant noise. | Helicopter Flat Hut, Kahurangi National Park

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45 almost epic adventures on the South Island & Rakiura

Helicopter Flat Hut | Kahurangi National Park

Helicopter Flat Hut is an original NZFS SF 70 hut that appears to have been extended and renovated at some stage, probably around 1980 when Taipo Hut was built. New stainless steel benches, two new windows, and some structural repairs were made, and it was repainted inside and out in 2019.

Good location on a river terrace not far from the Karamea River. Look out for the whio/blue ducks on the river.

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category . . . standard hut

hut fee . . . from 1 July 2026

Adult (18+ years): $15.00 per night
Youth (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
Child/Infant (0–4 years): free

Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, red for youth) for each night of your stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. A Backcountry Hut Pass is also valid year-round.

booking . . . not required all year for either hut or camping

campsite fee . . . free to camp

elevation . . . 740 m

bunks . . . 8 mattresses

built . . . 1963, extended around 1980, renovated 2019

heating . . . woodburner

water . . . bucket and 30 m walk to Karamea River

toilet . . . longdrop