Image: Brian Dobbie | ©
Big Hut.
Big Hut

Located in Rock and Pillar Conservation Area in the Otago region

This historic alpine hut in the Coastal Otago area is owned and managed by the Strath Taieri Agriculture & Rural Tourism (START).

This historic alpine hut is located in the Rock and Pillar Range in Coastal Otago. The hut is owned and maintained by the Strath Taieri Agriculture & Rural Tourism (START).

Altitude: 1325 m

Water

Rainwater and stream nearby. Boil all water before use.

Facilities

  • Gas cooker, cookware, cutlery, plates etc available
  • Two bunkrooms
  • A large common room with table tennis table
  • Dining tables and seating
  • A relatively small kitchen
  • A gear room and a wash room/entry lobby, all with solar-powered lighting
  • No artificial heating in the hut

History

The original hut was built by the Otago Ski Club in 1946 as part of an attempt to develop a ski field on the Rock & Pillar Range. For many years this 'Big Hut', as it became known, provided the venue for large weekend parties of enthusiasts who engaged in all forms of skiing - downhill, slalom, jumping, and langlauf.

The hut fell into disuse and disrepair after 1954, until the 1980’s when the Otago Tramping & Mountaineering Club made it weatherproof again.

Big Hut is now managed by Strath Taieri Agriculture & Rural Tourism (START) and major upgrades, including insulation, have commenced. Donations are welcomed.

Fees

Adult: $12 per night 
Child: $7 per night 
Day use: Donation

Pay online to START Trust:

  • 06 0939 0096156 03

Bookings

This is a private hut, bookings are required.

Email Kate Wilson kate@strathburn.co.nz (if no reply within two days text cell phone). Phone: +64 27 443 8134.

The Hut Trust reserves the right to decline bookings that are inappropriate or potentially damaging to the hut or conservation area.

Gelncreag Track

This climbs 1000 m on the eastern face from Glencreag up a leading ridge south of Six Mile Creek. This is the most direct approach and assured access on foot. It is marked the whole way. Track on map is approximate. 2-3+ hours.

Kinvara Road

This climbs 3000 feet up the eastern face on a vehicle track up a leading spur south of Lug Creek (foot, mountain bike). 3.45-4 hours on foot.

Old Dunstan Road

This is a very rough vehicle track from the Old Dunstan Road, northwards along the crest of the range (foot, mountain bike). 3.5 hours on foot.

Tracks to this hut

Location

Rock & Pillar Conservation Area

Topo50 map sheet CD15, E1371240, N4964410

The hut is in an alpine environment. Weather is subject to rapid change, and conditions may be icy / slippery. Crampons may be required.

Stay safe in the outdoors

  1. Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
  2. Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts. 
  3. Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists. 
  4. Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon. 
  5. Take care of yourself and each other.