Built in 1962 as a forestry hut, the Top Timaru Hut in the Hawea Conservation Park sat in a dark gorge on the opposite side of the river to the walking track.
Last month, it was renovated and relocated to a sunny spot across the river by Department of Conservation staff so trampers and hunters no longer have to cross Timaru River.
The hut is a stopover on the 3050km Te Araroa Walkway.
It is now clad in prepainted steel to blend into the tussock setting.
Sleeping capacity has been increased from four to six and there is a covered porch.
Te Araroa Trust South Island project manager Michael Pullar welcomed the hut upgrade.
"The trust has received great support from Department of Conservation the length of the country and the contribution from staff in the Wanaka area has been enthusiastic."
The Timaru River track is 54km long and is a three- to four-day tramp.
