Child friendly rating: 5 stars

Distance: 5km

Signposted time: 2 hours

Bookings Required? No

Suitable in Winter? Yes

Camping Available? Yes

4wd required? No

Parking:

Park at the Rainbow Reach Carpark for the shortest walk.

The Track:

This hut is very close to Moturau Hut, so see that one for more details.

It was saved from being demolished by a local scout group. It's only 1km off the main Kepler Track, and a great alternative to the busy and massive Moturau Hut.

Take the Kepler Track to the Shallow Bay turn-off, and then follow the beach along to the hut.

As far as the turn-off, the track is wide and flat most of the way. (Bar a spot where you climb over an old slip)

After the turn off, it's still nice and easy even for toddlers to manage the walk. Plus the beach walking is lovely on a hot day.

Another option is kakaying/packrafting down the Waiau River or from Manapouri. You can also take your own boat from Manapouri township.

Hut:

The hut is older, but well looked after. During the day it can be busy with boaties, but they normally don't stay the night.

Recommendations:

If Moturau is booked out, or if you're after a quieter more rustic experience, this is great for all ages. If camping, continue along the edge of the lake past the hut and there are some nicer beach camping spots near the river mouth.