Where to pick up the keys
The keys are held for us by Small Planet, an outdoor shop in central Queenstown at 15–17 Shotover Street. Open 7 days, 9 am – 6 pm (closed Christmas Day and Anzac Day; phone +64 3 442 6393 to be sure).
The team there hold the keys and take payment on our behalf. Pay in exact cash — there are no card facilities for our bookings. Bring the $50 key deposit in cash too; it's just held in an envelope until you return the key.
You only need to pay for the nights you stay. Several keys are cut, so if you're walking the Routeburn first you can collect in advance — let us know in the booking comments so we keep track.
Returning the keys
Drop them back at Small Planet on the way home and your $50 deposit comes back to you.
Took the keys home by mistake?
It happens. Email huts@southernlakesnzda.org.nz to let us know, then post them to:
Southern Lakes NZDA, PO Box 1648, Queenstown 9348.
Include your NZ bank details and we'll refund the deposit. Overseas accounts cop the transaction fee on the refund.
Getting to the track
Allow about 2 hours from Queenstown to the Greenstone car park.
In heavy rain there are three fords to cross to reach the car park.
In real weather the road near Kinloch can wash out.
No cell coverage in the valley — download maps and directions before you leave.
Prefer not to drive?
You can book track transport from Queenstown to the car park — Info Track and other providers run the route. Confirm the current operators directly before you book.