something new is taking shape
Our beloved original Run Hut has officially retired, marking the end of an era for a true regional icon. First and foremost a hunters’ sanctuary, this hut is a piece of high-country history with a thousand tales to tell – from decades of successful stalks to the legendary yarns shared over a bottle of whiskey after a long day on the hill.
While those original eight bunks are moving into the history books, they are making way for a significant transformation of our stays. We are currently navigating the fine details of the consent and design process to bring you a new sanctuary – one that honours the rugged spirit of the hunters and adventurers who came before us, while offering a level of comfort and “flash” we’ve long dreamed of.
Why the Wait?
Good things take time, especially when they are built to last. This new build is the flagship project of our Development Works, a series of intentional upgrades designed to deepen your connection to this landscape. This isn’t just a replacement for the old hut; it’s a purposeful, off-grid retreat designed to offer much-needed comfort for 18 guests while letting the landscape remain the star of the show.
project timeline
| Phase | Milestone | Status |
| Phase 1 | Concept & Eco-Design | Completed |
| Phase 2 | Consents & Off-Grid Engineering | In Progress |
| Phase 3 | Site Preparation & Foundations | Upcoming |
| Phase 4 | The Build & Solar/Hydro Install | Upcoming |
| Phase 5 | The Grand Opening | Expected Summer 2026/27 |
by the numbers: old vs new
To help you appreciate the scale of this project, here is a look at how the Run Hut experience is evolving:
- Capacity: Moving from 8 bunks in two spaces to sleeping 18 across 4 private, thoughtfully designed rooms.
- The Hub: A dedicated Common Room and Kitchen area designed for communal meals, relaxing and reliving the day’s adventures.
- The Deck & Gallery: An expansive outdoor space designed for the Kaikōura wilderness elements. A central, weather-protected gallery connects the sleeping wings to the kitchen hub, allowing you to move between spaces in total comfort, rain or shine. When the weather plays ball, it opens out onto wide-reaching decking to fully soak in the views.
- Facilities: Modern toilet and shower facilities (a significant “flash” upgrade from the original!).
- Adventure-Ready: Integrated bike racks and a dedicated wash-down area for our trail-blazing guests.
Our Off Grid Philosophy
We believe that high-end stays shouldn’t cost the earth. The new Run Hut will be a marvel of modern remote engineering:
- Solar Powered: Harnessing the Kaikōura sun to power your stay.
- Hydro Water Scheme: Utilising our natural water flows for a truly renewable energy cycle.
- Off-Grid Sophistication: Experience total seclusion with all the modern comforts, powered entirely by the landscape itself.
Note to Visitors: While the old hut is out of commission, we are working hard behind the scenes (and through the paperwork!) to get the new doors open. Follow this page for photo updates as we break ground.