Ōtaki Forks to Field Hut

Walking time

3 hr

Length

5.9km

Uses

Tramping/Hiking

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Intermediate: Easier tramping track

Profile

862m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)

About the trail

Ōtaki Forks to Field Hut is a common way to access the famous Southern Crossing in the Tararua Range. The trail is a pleasant steady climb through beech forest.

This classic Tararua tramp is the perfect overnight trip, taking only a few hours to complete. It's suitable for older kids and family groups.

Built in 1924, Field Hut was one of the first purpose-built tramping huts in the country and is the oldest surviving recreational hut in the Tararua Range. It provides a welcome respite for trampers in poor weather.

More experienced hikers, can continue onto Kime Hut a few hours away. The walk to Kime Hut offers great views, snow in the winter, and a boardwalk across hundreds of metres of vulnerable subalpine bogs.

The exterior of Field Hut in Tararua Forest Park. People are sitting on the deck eating. Native trees surround the hut.

Field Hut in the Tararua Range.

Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
There have been several search and rescue efforts in the Tararua Range, some with tragic outcomes. Plan for all conditions, even if the weather looks fine when you start.
Tararua Range is known for quickly changeable and treacherous weather. Cold weather, heavy mist, and strong winds can come up quickly. Be well-equipped for any weather conditions.
Consider postponing your trip if you are unsure.
The track to Field Hut can be muddy after rain and the access road may be closed due to slips after heavy rain. Check the track status before you go.
The weather on the exposed tussock tops can be brutal so always check the alpine forecast and track conditions before you go.
Carrying a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) or satellite phone is recommended, and always tell someone about your plans.
Pack enough food, water, and warm clothing.

The trail starts from Ōtaki Gorge Road.
An active slip is blocking access to Ōtaki Forks. You will need to park at the car park before the slip and use the emergency access track to reach Otaki Forks. The emergency access track is about 5km long and you can access it 200m past the locked gate on Ōtaki Gorge Road.
Follow the Arcus Loop track clockwise, until you see the signpost for Field Hut and the Southern Crossing.

Field Hut is a standard Department of Conservation (DOC) hut with 20 bunk beds, heating, non-treated water, and a long-drop toilet. Field Hut - DOC.
Bookings are not required but you must purchase a hut pass from an isite visitor information centre, DOC office, or Otaki Hunting and Fishing.

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A hiker on the summit of a mountain range.

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A single tree sits in front of a vast view of Waikanae beach.

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A scenic view of mountain ranges, the ocean and a small island under the clear blue sky.

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Four hikers walk along a wooden path surrounded by tall grass.

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A child and adult in the bush looking into the trees and pointing.

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Four people ride bicycles on a path in Queen Elizabeth Regional Park in the Paraparaumu, New Zealand surrounded by nature.

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