Lake Mackenzie Hut on the Routeburn Track will be closed for five months as it undergoes major renovations. The 50-bunk hut will be closed from May 20 until the end of September.

People can still use the Lake Mackenzie Campsite and use the winter toilet located at the hut.

The 40-year-old hut is being recladded and will get a new roof.

DOC says Great Walks are becoming increasingly popular in the off-season, when the huts don’t have to be booked and the prices are lower than during the walking season.