Centennial Hut
Centennial Hut
A High Alpine Base at the head of the Franz Josef Glacier
Centennial Hut sits dramatically on the Franz Josef Névé at 2,400 m, offering unparalleled access to the glaciated heart of Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Overlooking the sprawling upper reaches of the Franz Josef Glacier, the hut is a strategic base for guided alpine climbing, glacier touring and ski mountaineering, glacier trekking, and mountaineering instruction in the rugged West Coast ranges of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. With panoramic views stretching from the icefields to the Tasman Sea, Centennial Hut offers one of the most breathtaking alpine settings in the country.
Facilities
Centennial Hut is a well-equipped alpine shelter maintained by the Department of Conservation, offering 20 bunks with mattresses, solar lighting, cooking utensils, a water tank, and a long-drop toilet. While there is no heating, the hut provides basic shelter for high-altitude stays. On guided trips, all meals, cooking, and equipment are taken care of by your guide, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience. Don't forget to pack a warm sleeping bag and down jacket!
Centennial Hut Adventures
Our recommendations of things to do at Centennial Hut.
🎿 Ski Mountaineering & Glacier Skiing
In winter and spring, Centennial Hut is perfectly positioned for guided ski mountaineering trips across the expansive névé, offering long glacial descents, technical climbs, and ski traverses in a dramatic alpine setting. It is also used for ski traverses and expeditions such as the Symphony on Skis.
Glacier Ski Touring & Ski Mountaineering🧭 Mountaineering Skills Courses
Centennial Hut is frequently used for instructional courses, where clients can learn glacier travel, crevasse rescue, rope skills, avalanche safety, and weather navigation under the guidance of IFMGA and NZMGA certified mountain guides.
🧭 Mountaineering Skills Courses🧗♂️ Alpine Climbing
Centennial Hut is a key base for climbing prominent peaks like the Minarets, offering challenging routes in snow, ice, and mixed terrain. Guided ascents focus on safety, glacier travel, and steep alpine techniques.
Guided Alpine Climbing🥾 Glacier Hiking & Photography
For non-technical adventurers, guided glacier hikes and snowshoe explorations from the hut allow you to experience the raw beauty of the alpine environment without needing to climb technical peaks. It’s also a stunning location for alpine photography.
Franz Josef Glacier Trek