Description

Mackintosh Hut is located in the mid-southern area of the Kaweka Forest Park. Fees apply. Bookings not required - first come, first served. Facilities include Wood burning stove replace firewood for the next occupants, mattresses, non-flush toilets and water (not treated - boil before use). The hut is located on a wide plateau area at the edge of a small pocket of beech forest. The surrounding plateau area is still regenerating after being heavily modified by fire, sheep grazing and introduced plants and animals. Mackintosh Hut is one of the Kaweka Forest Parks earlier huts, built in 1959 to assist with deer culling operations. It was upgraded in 2003 and 2009. Getting there Walking Mackintosh Hut can be reached from 3 access points in the south. Lakes Road (2 3 hr) From the carpark the track drops down a steep but well graded track to the Tutaekuri River. There is a bridge to cross the Tutaekuri River. Proceed upstream for a short time before climbing up to the Mackintosh Plateau and continuing onto the flat to Mackintosh Hut. Lawrence Shelter - Lawrence Roadend (4 hr) Cross the swing bridge from the roadend and proceed up to Tutaekuri River to reach the Donald River confluence. The route follows the river upstream for approximately 30 minutes. Look for the track to Mackintosh Hut on the true right (west side) of the Donald River and then ascend up to Mackintosh Plateau and the hut. Makahu Saddle Carpark (3 3.5 hr) Proceed along the Matauria Ridge until meeting the steep descent into the Donald River. From the Donald river climb steeply up onto the Mackintosh Plateau and follow the track to reach Mackintosh Hut. Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, yellow for youth) for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 6 or 12-month period.