Department of Conservation launches online booking for Tongariro huts

Waihohonu Hut is one of several Tongariro huts included in DoC's online booking system, which aims to mitigate overcrowding. Photo / Janette Asche

A new booking system for the public huts in Tongariro National Park aims to curb overcrowding and increase certainty for visitors.

The Tongariro huts are part of a group of campsites and huts across New Zealand’s national parks added to the Department of Conservation (DoC) online booking system.

From backcountry, mountain areas to the coastline, 45 more sites – 22 huts and 23 campsites – can now be booked on the DoC website.

“Some people love a last-minute mission into Tongariro National Park, but it’s never fun if you end up with 30 other people stacked in like sardines, or you’re forced to sleep outside in the rain without a tent,” Tongariro principal ranger heritage and visitors Stu Smith said.

“With booking, you can still be spontaneous and book last-minute, but booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out altogether.”

The pre-existing cost to stay at any of the sites has not changed.

The huts in Tongariro that can be booked online include Boyd, Blyth, Mangaehuehu, Mangaturuturu, Rangipo and Whakapapaiti.

“Your booking is adjustable, and it also means we can contact you if changes in track or weather conditions might affect your plans,” Smith said.

The huts will remain open to any visitors as emergency shelters.

“Backcountry huts are always unlocked and available as emergency shelter to any who need it, regardless of booking,” DoC visitor services manager Cameron Hyland said.

“Booking provides extra assurance to families and less experienced visitors.”

Bookings will be flexible to accommodate changes in conditions or travel plans.

Huts included in the Backcountry Hut Pass and Campsite Pass will remain available for online bookings.

DoC manages more than 950 huts across New Zealand. Fees to stay at the huts go toward their upkeep.