The Ruataniwha Hut provides you with a base to enjoy a vast range of outdoor activities that the Mackenzie Country has to offer.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is the home of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers in New Zealand. Aoraki/Mt Cook Village is just 50 mins journey from the hut and is a great hub for a variety of alpine activities including the Hooker Valley trail hike.

Lake Ohau is found  about 5 mins drive away. The lake is feed by the glacial rivers of the Hopkins and Dobson Rivers. Swimming , kayaking and boating are popular in the summer while the area is one of the best freshwater fishing destinations in New Zealand.

In the winter Ohau snow fields , Roundhill and Mt Dobson offer skiing and snow boarding. The Two Thumb range is a popular for back country skiing while heli-sking is run by several companies based out of Mt Cook and Tekapo.

The Hut is conveniently  situated on the Alps to Ocean cycle trail and would be great place to stay on your journey. Bike hire can be found in Twizel.