Christmas Flat Hut

Lame Duck Hut – Christmas Flat Hut

Time: 3 hr From Lame Duck Flat follow markers through a stand of beech next to the river for about 20 min. The route then climbs about 100 m and follows roughly at this level to an old open slip face before coming out onto the face beside a prominent rata tree 50 m above the river. Descend across the face to the river. Cross the Karangarua River to avoid the bluff, recross, and then cross the Troyte River. Christmas Flat is about 45 min away.

The route starts close to the river, 30 m above the Troyte, and travels along a terrace for 15 min before climbing steeply for about 50 m. It generally keeps at this level until a grassy slip. Cross the slip and travel down it, almost to the riverbed, where the route re-enters the bush and continues to the four bunk Christmas Flat Hut. Important note: The route described below is only suitable for parties who are highly skilled and experienced, and well-equipped. The majority of this route is unmarked and parties require a very high level of navigational skills. The route requires good weather and snow conditions to allow for safe travel – high avalanche danger is possible.