It’s hard to wrap words around what an amazing experience it is to stay at the mud hut. It was probably THE singular highlight of our 6 week tour of NZ. You should do this!
The walk into the hut is gorgeous - well-designed, well-maintained trail with astonishing and changing views all the way. The length of the walk to the hut is just right - gives you a sense of having done something. Since the property is privately held, you are basically alone on the trail to enjoy the vast expanse. (And - added plus - we found the whiskey at Welcome Rock!)
The hut is utterly charming and cozy and the setting is astonishingly beautiful. We loved the historical context of its creation and rehabilitation - it added a layer of richness to our experience. The cabin warmed nicely with the fire and we slept deeply.
The hut itself is stocked with some dish ware and very little else, so be sure to bring everything you may need (including matches, candles, paper for fire starting, towels for bathtub, dish towel, etc). We felt the interior of the hut was somewhat neglected (very dirty surfaces, dirty floors, broken wine bottles - worse than most huts); we spent sometime leaving the place better than we found it - and we hope future guest do too. We also mentioned this to the host as well, so likely they will have addressed the problem. I mention this only so future guests know what to possibly expect - but don’t let it put you off from staying here. If you love the outdoors, this is an absolute must do. We will cherish the experience forever.