Teal Bay Hut sits on the southern shore of Lake Hauroko — at 462 m, the deepest lake in New Zealand — deep in Fiordland National Park.
It can be reached directly from Rarakau: a demanding alpine route climbs from the Bluecliffs Beach trailhead over the high tops of Hump Ridge and drops down to the hut, on the order of 8–9 hours for experienced trampers (signposted times can run long, so budget extra).
This is a serious alpine crossing, not a casual walk-in — good weather, fitness and navigation skills are essential. See our South Coast Track page for the rest of the network this route connects into.
Sleeping & Facilities
- 12 bunks with mattresses
- Heating provided
- Non-flush toilet
- Tap water — boil before drinking
No booking is required, but pay for your stay with a Standard Hut Ticket in the honesty box, or use a Backcountry Hut Pass.
From Rarakau Lodge Trailhead (via South Coast)
Rarakau Lodge sits right at the trailhead for the Teal Bay Track — a demanding alpine crossing of about 23 km, climbing over 1,000 m to the top of Hump Ridge before dropping down to the hut. On-the-ground reports put it at around 8–9 hours, though signposted times are often optimistic — budget extra. See the Teal Bay Track page for the full route.
Jet Boat Access
Lake Hauroko and the Wairaurahiri River that drains it can also be seen by jet boat — a faster, easier way to experience this part of Fiordland if a multi-day alpine crossing isn't what you're after. Wairaurahiri Wilderness Jet runs a full-day trip from Lake Hauroko, 27 km down the Wairaurahiri River through Grade 3 rapids and ancient beech forest to the South Coast and back.
Planning to link Teal Bay Hut with the South Coast Track? Rarakau Lodge is the natural place to rest before or after the crossing.