Deep in the Southern Alps, Godley Hut has one of the best alpine views in the country, looking out to the terminal lake of the Maud and Grey glaciers, the Maud icefall fills the hut’s northern window.

Access is by 4WD vehicle for around 30km up the Godley River, followed by a short 3km walk that even the sturdiest vehicles can’t cope with.

Built pile-less in 1934, directly onto a slightly elevated rocky shelf at 1100m, the eight bunk hut has a historic feel. The hut was officially opened by AP Harper and GE Mannering, two of New Zealand’s alpine greats and both founding members and ex-presidents of the New Zealand Alpine Club.

The hut was to be retired in 2005, but maintenance work has kept it going. The South Canterbury Section of NZAC takes prime responsibility for maintenance.