Staircase Hut Circuit – Waianakarua Conservation Area

Tucked into the foothills behind Herbert in North Otago, the Staircase Hut circuit is a challenging full-day or overnight hike through a mix of steep forest, open tussock tops, and rugged ridgelines. It’s one of those tracks that truly lives up to its name — steep, demanding, and full of character — rewarding you with solitude, expansive views, and a genuine backcountry feel.

Getting There

The circuit starts from a car park off Mount Misery Road, within the Waianakarua Conservation Area. The road is gravel and generally accessible to most vehicles, with a good-sized parking area near the track entrance.

This route can be tackled as either a long day hike or an overnight trip if you stay at Staircase Hut, a private hut that must be booked in advance if you plan to stay.

Onto the Track

From the car park, the track drops steeply to the Waianakarua River, immediately setting the tone for what’s to come — a hike with plenty of up and down. It’s best completed in a clockwise direction, which gives a smoother flow to the climbs and descents.

Once you reach the river, turn left and follow it briefly before crossing. The climb begins sharply from here, winding up through forest before breaking out onto open slopes as you near the bushline.

Across the Tops

Above the bushline, the track opens into tall tussock country where the way can be hard to follow — especially in low visibility. Look out for snow poles, as animal trails can easily lead you astray.

At the top of Tabletop, remnants of an old 4WD track guide the next section. Follow this along before it drops steeply into a tussock clearing and crosses a small stream. From here, it’s another tough climb up the ridge, which then sidles across to Staircase Hut.

Staircase Hut

Staircase Hut sits tucked into the hillside, a welcome sight after the steep climbs.

The hut is private and must be booked before staying overnight.

Facilities include:

• 6 bunks

• Long drop toilet

• Open fire

• Water from a nearby stream

It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by tussock ridges, perfect for a quiet night in the hills before the demanding second half of the circuit.

Completing the Circuit

From the hut, the track sidles away and then climbs steeply to Staircase Ridge, living up to its name once again. The ridge section offers incredible views but also some exposure — there are three steep rocky outcrops to navigate, requiring care, especially in wet or windy conditions.

The final descent — around 200 metres down to the Waianakarua River — is steep and rough underfoot, demanding patience and steady footing. Once back at the river, follow it downstream, crossing where necessary until you reach the junction where you began. From here, it’s just the final steep climb back to the car park to complete the loop.

Track Stats

• Distance: 21 km

• Time: Around 9 hours (or overnight)

• Elevation Gain: Significant approximately. 1094 metres – steep climbs and descents throughout

• Grade: Advanced tramping track

• Navigation: Poles and track markers; challenging in poor visibility

Why Hike It

The Staircase Hut circuit is one for experienced trampers looking for a full, rewarding day in the hills. It offers everything from beech forest to alpine tussock, sharp climbs, river crossings, and open ridge walking. The physical effort is matched by the sense of isolation and raw beauty that comes with exploring this lesser-known part of North Otago’s high country.

Whether you tackle it as a big day out or take your time with an overnight stay at Staircase Hut, this circuit delivers a real backcountry experience — one that’s rugged, quiet, and deeply satisfying.

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