Okarito is famous for the Kotuku (white heron), kayaking on the lagoon and lovely bush walks, with fantastic views of Mt Cook and the Southern Alps from the Trig Point behind the village.
Okarito is 32km from Franz Josef where guests can take guided trips on the glacier, scenic helicopter and aeroplane flights and day walks. Okarito is the place to get away from it all!
Features: The Okarito YHA is an associate hostel administered and run by members of the Okarito Community Association. This hostel was the original school built in the 1870s when Okarito was a thriving gold-mining town. It is a small 12 bunk hostel with lots of character and a cosy atmosphere with good cooking facilities.
No shops or banks at Okarito - please bring your own food. The nearest shops are Whataroa 31km or Franz Josef 29km. Coin-showers are available at the campground closeby. Facilities open all day. Non-resident manager.