East Matakitaki Hut

East Matakitaki Hut (6 bunk, matresses, fireplace, creek water) lies on river flats in the upper Matakitaki valley (east branch). The hut is a typical forestry hut 50m from the river.

The upper Matakitaki flows south from David Saddle and the Upper D'Urville pass through a mainly broad and flat valley. For 7km north of the hut the valley sides are covered by beech at lower altitudes, though grassy flats dominate on the valley floor, with only occasional areas of beech reaching the riverbanks. One short waterfall section is easily passed on the beech valley-side. Further up the valley turns to first tussock and then scree as the passes are approaced. No cut track exists above the hut, but the valley floor route is well travelled and easily followed. Both David Saddle and the Upper D'Urville saddle are reached by steep climbs up loose scree.

South of the hut the valley soon gorges out, but a good sidle track leads to the forks with the West Matakitaki.