The Tararua Forest Park covers an area of 1,150 square kilometres (115,000 hectares / 287,500 acres) and was established in 1954 as NZ's first Forest Park. The parks highest point is Mitre at 1,571m above sea level, and is located on the eastern side of the range.
The DoC provide a comprehensive history of the Tararua Forest Park, covering the history of Maori settlement and exploration, historic sites, the deer culling days and tramping in the park. See:
https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/wellington-kapiti/places/tararua-forest-park/historic-tararua-forest-park/.
A few key Tararua dates include:
- 1871-74 - Bulk of Tararua Forest purchased by Crown.
- 1873 - Tararua block of 103,000 acres purchased for 2,972 pounds from Ngati Kahungunu, Muapoko and Rangitane tribes.
- 1881 - Court order defined the Tararua block as 114,500 acres (bounded in the north by the Ruamahunga River; the east by the Waingawa River; the west by the Hector-Dundas range line; and the south by the Hector branch of the Waiohine River. A further 155,000 acres was later added.
- 1890's - Opossums introduced into both sides of the park beginning in 1892 and continued until the late 1920's and again in 1932.
- 1907 - last sighting of a Huia (a possible sighting on the Kapiti coast was recorded in 1924).
- 1921 - Tararuas first declared a State Forest.
- 1930 - First full printed map of the Tararuas published.
I have visited all of the huts photographed below except for those that are long gone, with those photos being sourced from the Wairarapa Archive Collection or 'old timers' who have.
Alloway-Dickson Hut
Or Allaway-Dickson.
Built by members of the UWTC in 1948-49 as a memorial to Stanley Alloway and Roy Dickson who were killed on a club trip to the Hopkins Valley in 1947. By 1972 it was falling apart and the hut was demolished. It was replaced by Tutuwai Hut further up the valley.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
Hut location at the bottom of the Block XVI Track.
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| NZMS1 1969 |
Alpha Hut
The first Alpha Hut was built in 1910-11 (some sources suggest it as Easter 1915). Records indicate that the hut was built by W Workman under contract to the Greytown Track Committee. Framing was cut on site and iron and joinery was brought in by packhorse. The hut was extended in 1938 and demolished in 1952.
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| Mt Alpha Hut, 1916. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Alpha Hut. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
A second Alpha Hut was constructed in 1951, opening in 1953 (or possibly 1952). This hut was in a different location to #1 due to the 'locking up' of the Hutt River water catchment area.
Records record an Alpha Bivouac being built by the NZFS in 1963.
Alpha Hut # 3 was built by the NZFS ($20,000 cost) and opened in 1983.
Anderson Memorial Hut
The first Anderson Memorial Hut was erected in 1946; the first high level hut in NZ to be air-dropped. It was demolished in 1979 and replaced with the (relocated) ex Mid Otaki Hut.
Angle Knob Hut
Built by the NZFS in 1961 and blown off the ridge in 1980.
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| Angle Knob Hut in 1961 - long gone. Joe Hanson Collection |
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| Angle Knob Hut blown over. Joe Hanson collection |
Aokaparangi Hut
The first Aokaparangi Hut was built by the NZFS in 1963. The following, newer (2008) hut, has two beds and is absolutely superb, located in a well sheltered spot.
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| Jan 2020 |
Arete Hut
The first hut was built by the NZFS in either 1961 or 1967. It ultimately blew away and was replaced with Arete Hut # 2 in 1984. This hut was air-lifted in from the Trass property at Mt Bruce in March 1984.
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| Arete Hut # 2. Source: Joe Hansen collection |
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| Arete Hut # 2. Source: Joe Hansen |
Hut # 2 was subsequently re-sited.
This is hut # 3 and was built in 2007. The hut was built in Auckland and flown in from Reef Hill (farm at Mt Bruce). The hut is 200m south-west of the location of the first two huts.
Arete Forks Hut
To come.
The original hut was built in 1968 by the NZFS and Masterton Tramping Club.
The hut is an easy 1.5hr stroll up the Atiwhakatu Valley from Mt Holdsworth carpark. The track is well graded, and all weather. From the hut head NW up Rainguage Spur to Jumbo Hut, or NE to Mitre Flats.
This hut was built in two stages, I think 2003 and 2013.
Avalanche Flats Bivvy / Hut
A bivvy was built on Avalanche Flats in 1947. A second hut was built in 1952 by the Manawatu TC.
The following photo is of a 12-bunk hut on Avalanche Flats (hut #2 maybe). It was removed in the 1980's.
I know little about this whare however understand its around 3.5 hours along Burtons Track (as spelt on the Topo 50 map) which is part of the Te Araroa Track, east of Shannon. The track was originally cut by Tim Burtton.
Carkeek Hut
Carkeek Hut was built by the NZFS in 1962.
Photo to come.
Cattle Ridge Hut
Cattle Ridge Hut was built in 1960-61 by the NZFS. In 2012 DoC was going to remove the hut, but for the resistance of the strong-willed outdoor community.
By Felicity Deverell
The sketch incorrectly dates the hut 100 years earlier.
Felicity's work can be found here: http://felicitydeverell.blogspot.com/2015/01/drawing-cone-hut.html and https://issuu.com/felicitydeverellartist/docs/the_art_of_a_hut_cataloge
Cone Saddle Hut
A NZFS hut built in 1930 and dismantled in 1945 (in time for the Cone Hut opening - see above).
Cow Creek Hut
Cow Creek hut was built by the NZFS in 1960.
On this trip I was with Ian Atkinson and Simon Everett. We were on a December three day trip over Blue Range, down the Waingawa Valley and over into the Atiwhakatu.
Dobson Bivy / Dobson Hut
Records suggest a "first Dobsons Bivvy erected by DR Hoggard and others" in 1921. I'm unsure about a second hut, but have a record of a third hut being constructed in 1941.
Hut four opened in November 1954 and possibly demolished by the army in 1994.
The following photo is labelled as first Dobson Hut.
Dorset Ridge Hut
I believe this to be the first Dorset Ridge Hut (1955) and actually located on the next spur east of the current hut. It was rebuilt in 1968 and ultimately removed when the NZFS built the existing six bunk hut.
Dracophyllum Hut
Dracophyllum Bivouac was built by the NZFS in 1966 and removed in the mid 2000's.
The replacement hut was built in the mid 2000's. Photo to come
Dundas Hut
Another NZFS hut, built in 1960. Photo to come.
Eastern Hutt Hut
Alternatively known as 'hut with no name', located on the true left bank the hut is 50m back from the river. If you don't find the hut you'll most certainly find the helicopter landing pad 100m down-stream.
Elder Hut
Elder Bivouac was built by the NZFS in 1963. I'm unsure of the location.
Elder Hut opened in March 2006, Elder Hut is not super busy as it's a fairly 'out of the way' spot, heading west to Renata and then a long-ish walk along the 4x4 road Waiotauru Road from Maymorn Junction.
We chose to drop down Ridge 666 to look for the hut hidden in the Snowy River.
Field Hut
Construction of the original hut with pit sawn timber in 1924. The hut was built over five months at a price of 430 pounds by Gibb and Fisk. It was significantly upgraded in 1981 and again in 2003.
By Felicity Deverell.
Harris Creek Hut
Harris Creek is in the Mangahao Valley, part way to Mangahao Flats Hut. I have passed by, but not seen much in the way of remnants.
The first Harris Creek Hut was constructed in 1938-39 and the second in 1946 (around 300 yards from the first). The hut below, the third, was constructed in 1977 by the Manawatu TC. It was removed in 2003 and has not been replaced.
Haukura Ridge Bivvy
Built by the NZFS in 1961 and removed in 1996 as it was subject to erosion.
Hector Dogbox
Hector Saddle Dogbox was built by the Tararua Tramping Club in 1922-23 at a cost of 60 pounds. It was built following the death of Harold Freeman during the club's first official traverse of the Southern Crossing.
The dogbox was blown over in 1929.
H.K. Douglas standing in front of the Hector Dogbox.
Herepai Hut
Herepai Hut replaces Putara Hut which burned down in 1977. The hut was built in 1980 by the NZFS with $1,000 of materials supplied by the Bush Tramping Club.
A fairly easy 2.5hr walk from the Putara road-end albeit with a grunt from 400m to 770m over an hour or so.
Two large bunks comfortably sleep 10.
The hut is on the bush edge below Herepai at the 800m contour.
Holdsworth Lodge
Not a mountain hut as such, but road end lodgings at Mt Holdsworth carpark. The Lodge was opened in 1967. Must be booked these-days.
Jumbo Hut
Jumbo Hut was built in 1981, replacing Angle Knob Hut. It was upgraded in 1993, and again around 2010-15 with new cladding and wind tie-downs.
Mountain House / Mountain House Shelter
1907 - Mountain House # 1 built by the Mt Holdsworth Club.
North Mangahao Biv
To come.
North Ohau Hut
The latest iteration of North Ohau is a lovely little four-bunk hut located up the North Ohau River. We visited in December 2019 with Nicholas and Missy Smith.
Ohau Hut
Records indicate an "Ohau Hut" built in 1929-30 and destroyed in 1936. A second Ohau hut was built in 1936, opening in November of that year. Later, in 1978, Ohau Shelter was built, replacing Ohau Hut.
The following map identifies the location.
Oriwa Bivouac
Located at the now dry Oriwa lake.
Renata Hut
Renata Hut opened in 1956.
Roaring Stag Hut
Roaring Stag Lodge was built in 1961. It was removed in the mid 2000's. It's not my photo, but I visited it many times in my teenage years.
And the replacement built by James Coubrough and colleague in 2004.
Rovers Hut
I understand Rover Hut was located at Kiriwhakapapa, just as the climbing starts on the Blue Range track. The hut was built in 1934 and slept 12.
Sayer Hut
Apparently built by Richard Sayer and family in 1907 (Leo Sayer's father).
From Tony Gazley (Wellington Tramping & Mountaineering Club): Sayer Hut is one of the oldest tramping huts in the Tararuas and has a fascinating story to tell.
In 1878 Sayer and Potts were prospecting for gold at Totara Flats and accidentally burnt much of the bush on the river banks to form the flats that we know so well. In 1889 Sayer tried introducing hens to Totara Flats but they soon died out. Then in 1909 Sayer built his hut on the flats on the eastern side of the Waiohine River - the first private hut in the Tararuas - that is still standing today.
John Rhodes advises that Leo Sayer later built his own hut "Leo's Whare" on the main flat across the river.
Smith Creek Hut / Smith Creek Shelter
Smith Creek Hut was built by the Public works Department in 1902 and was most likely the first hut in the Tararuas. It was later demolished.
Construction of Smiths Creek Hut # 2 began in 1948 and finished in 1949. This hut lasted until 1965.
The next hut, # 3, was built in 1965 and opened by the WTMC.
Hut # 4 was built in 1983, has a concrete floor, is cold and uninviting.
Snowy Hut
Not a DoC hut, but well known, Snowy Hut is in the Eastern Waiotauru (Snowy) River, and on the true left a couple of km's from the confluence with the Southern Waiotauru.
1997 sketch by Scotty Behrnes
South Ohau Hut
The first South Ohau Hut opening in 1948. I believe this is Hut # 1.
The following description is from Potton and Burton Publishing:
Stag (Neville) Spooner (1917-1946) was a government deer culler in 1939 and 1940, initially in the Tararuas, and then on the South Island’s West Coast. While his successful career as a culler was cut short by the Second World War, he did leave behind a remarkable legacy from this period, an illustrated diary of his experiences that he entitled Those Wild Men from the Bush. The diary is a fascinating chronicle of the life of a professional hunter, who somewhat unusually, was also an artist. Stag Spooner went on to create another highly individual body of art during the war, a series of decorated envelopes that were sent back to his family and friends.
His adventurous life started in the Wairarapa where he developed his love of hunting. He then became a deer culler, and saw active service during the Second World War in North Africa and Italy, as part of a Field Ambulance Unit.
Soon after his return to New Zealand, Stag’s life tragically ended on a hunting trip, alone, in the Fiordland mountains.
See also: https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/wairarapa-news/entertainment/7343002/Stag-Spooners-diary-a-blend-of-art-and-history
Tarn Ridge Hut
Te Mara Hut
Believed built in 1936 by Masterton Rover Scouts. This may be also Rovers Hut?
Te Matawai Hut
Construction of the first Te Matawai Hut began in 1932 and finished in 1933, at a cost of $82.70 (CPI adjusted to $4,510 in 2020). It was extensively rebuilt in 1963.
Te Matawai Hut # 2 was built in 1974 and is now on the Te Araroa Trail so gets plenty of use. One of the more average huts in the Tararuas - smelly, musty and moldy mattresses. Sleeps around 18.
Te Moe Moe Hut, Mt Hector
Te Moe Moe Hut was built in 1919 by the Otaki Track Committee and was located in the bushline on Fields Track. It does not exist today.
Thornhill's Hut / Possumers Hut
Another 'private' hut, Thornhill's is just off the Kapakapanui Track at around 900m elevation. It's within 100m of the track so fairly easy to find.
Top Hut
Joe Hansen provided the intel on this one. Top Hut was located in the upper Tauherenikau, below Bull Mound.
Totara Flats Hut
The location of Totara Flats Hut has moved over the years, from the north end (Totara Creek confluence), to the centre of the flats, and back again to the north.
Hut # 1 was built in 1948 fairly near the location of the current (2020) hut.
The following photo is Hut # 2. Whilst not my photo I did visite Hut # 2 a number of times. This hut was built in 1973 and sadly burned down in the early 2000's.
Sleeps 26 comfortably.
It's a 30 minute walk down the flat and across the Waiohine to visit Sayer Hut.
Tutuwai Hut
Tutuwai opened in 1972.
Located on a bench just above the river, and around one hour south of Cone Hut.
Upper Otaki Hut
May also be referred to as Mid Otaki Hut or Otaki Hut. See also Otaki Hut above.
Built by the NZFS in 1966.
The following picture is identified as Mid Otaki Hut. It was located where the Otaki Biodiversity Hut is currently located (as at 2022). In 1979 it was relocated to Anderson's.
Map BN33 now (2022) shows the hut below as Otaki Hut. I believe it has also been called Otaki Biodiversity Hut and Mid Otaki Hut. It is a two-bunker and was put here in 2005, and is the first hut in the upper Otaki since 1979.
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| Photo: Blair Ewington |
Arete Forks Hut
To come.
Further detail on the history of Arete Forks Hut, and in-fact the Tararua Range is available here: https://hutsandtracks.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/AreteForks-CombinedFINAL.pdf.
Atiwhakatu Hut
The original hut was built in 1968 by the NZFS and Masterton Tramping Club.
The hut is an easy 1.5hr stroll up the Atiwhakatu Valley from Mt Holdsworth carpark. The track is well graded, and all weather. From the hut head NW up Rainguage Spur to Jumbo Hut, or NE to Mitre Flats.
This hut was built in two stages, I think 2003 and 2013.
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| Feb 2017 |
Avalanche Flats Bivvy / Hut
A bivvy was built on Avalanche Flats in 1947. A second hut was built in 1952 by the Manawatu TC.
The following photo is of a 12-bunk hut on Avalanche Flats (hut #2 maybe). It was removed in the 1980's.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
The following picture shows the same hut, but indicates that one of the photos has been printed in reverse!
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
The following 1979 map identifies Avalanche Flats Hut around 2.5km south of the current Mangahao Flats Hut.
Bannister Hut
Located at, or near the Holdsworth road end, Bannister Hut # 1 was built in either 1920, 1922 or 1924 by Masterton Scouts, C Bannister and S Miller.
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| NZMS1 1979 |
Bannister Hut
Located at, or near the Holdsworth road end, Bannister Hut # 1 was built in either 1920, 1922 or 1924 by Masterton Scouts, C Bannister and S Miller.
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| Source: Joe Hansen. Photo taken 18.05.1933 by Ben Ions |
Bannister Hut # 2 was built in 1950 by the Masterton YMCA Tramping Club. Here's an early photo of Hut # 2.
Bannister Basin Hut
Built in 1955 or 1956 by Internal Affairs (the NZFS) and removed in the early 1980's.
At 993m elevation.
Bassett's Hut in the lower Waiohine Valley
Bassets Hut was located at the start of the track to Mt Reeves (Waiohine right bank) and was built in 1910 by R Bassett. The hut lasted until 1955.
Nell and Olive Nix are thought to be among the three ladies.
Blakes Hut
I have little information on Blakes Hut however the following map identifies its location near The Pines - the start of the Mitre Flats track.
The hut is believed to have been demolished in 1961.
Blue Range Hut
Constructed by the NZFS and Masterton Tramping Club in 1958.
The hut was managed by the Rathkeale College Tramping Club from the 1970's until 1991 when MTC again took control. It was re-roofed and relined for its 35th birthday in 1993.
An easy 1.5hr walk from Kiriwhakapapa road-end. Four bunks, with wonderful views north to Cattle Ridge (hut visible on a clear day) and beyond.
Booths Hut, Kaituna
Burn Hut
Burn Hut # 1 opened in 1972.
Burn Hut # 2 was built in 2002 (1.5km SE of Hut # 1). It's a 2hr 40min walk, this time in wind and rain during August 2017 with Nicola.
Sleeps eight, no heating.
A picture of the old Burn Hut, to the north can be found here: https://old.vuwtc.org.nz/cs/photos/tararua_huts/picture101.aspx
Burtton's Whare
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Bannister Basin Hut
Built in 1955 or 1956 by Internal Affairs (the NZFS) and removed in the early 1980's.
At 993m elevation.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz - Noel Frazer, 1965 |
Bassett's Hut in the lower Waiohine Valley
Bassets Hut was located at the start of the track to Mt Reeves (Waiohine right bank) and was built in 1910 by R Bassett. The hut lasted until 1955.
Nell and Olive Nix are thought to be among the three ladies.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
This next photo, from Joe Hansen, was taken around 1920 by Ian Powell.  |
| Source: Joe Hansen collection |
Blakes Hut
I have little information on Blakes Hut however the following map identifies its location near The Pines - the start of the Mitre Flats track.
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| Source: John Rhodes |
The hut is believed to have been demolished in 1961.
Blue Range Hut
Constructed by the NZFS and Masterton Tramping Club in 1958.
The hut was managed by the Rathkeale College Tramping Club from the 1970's until 1991 when MTC again took control. It was re-roofed and relined for its 35th birthday in 1993.
An easy 1.5hr walk from Kiriwhakapapa road-end. Four bunks, with wonderful views north to Cattle Ridge (hut visible on a clear day) and beyond.
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| Feb 2017 |
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| Blue Range Hut history |
Booths Hut, Kaituna
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection, 24 Jan 1971 |
Burn Hut
Burn Hut # 1 opened in 1972.
Burn Hut # 2 was built in 2002 (1.5km SE of Hut # 1). It's a 2hr 40min walk, this time in wind and rain during August 2017 with Nicola.
Sleeps eight, no heating.
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| Aug 2017 |
A picture of the old Burn Hut, to the north can be found here: https://old.vuwtc.org.nz/cs/photos/tararua_huts/picture101.aspx
Burtton's Whare
I know little about this whare however understand its around 3.5 hours along Burtons Track (as spelt on the Topo 50 map) which is part of the Te Araroa Track, east of Shannon. The track was originally cut by Tim Burtton.
This photo is dated circa 1920 and from the Manawatu Heritage website . That website notes Tim Burtton as a farmer in the area who built the Tokomaru Valley Road extension. Tim Burtton is the tall man wearing the hat in the following photograph. He died in March 1941 from an accident on his farm.
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| Source: Manawatu Heritage |
(https://manawatuheritage.pncc.govt.nz/item/cc5f1920-073f-4100-bc2b-f812c93d7969#tab-item-description)
This may be a later whare at the original site - photo taken from Belinda and Anthony Hadfield's Te Araroa blog, I hope they don't mind.
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| Source: Belinda & Anthony Hadfield |
Carkeek Hut
Carkeek Hut was built by the NZFS in 1962.
Photo to come.
Cattle Ridge Hut
Cattle Ridge Hut was built in 1960-61 by the NZFS. In 2012 DoC was going to remove the hut, but for the resistance of the strong-willed outdoor community.
This is the hut in its original state, and how I remember it from my teenage trips there.
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
The hut was upgraded in 2018 at a cost of around $70,000 and was reopened in February 2020.
Cone Hut
1945 - Original construction. Opened in 1946.
1989 - Official re-opening of historic hut attended by 62 guests.
2016 - Renovated (following vandalism).
An easy walk from the Waiohine road-end carpark.
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| July 2020 |
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| July 2020 |
Cone Hut
1945 - Original construction. Opened in 1946.
1989 - Official re-opening of historic hut attended by 62 guests.
2016 - Renovated (following vandalism).
An easy walk from the Waiohine road-end carpark.
The following photo was taken in the 1960's by Mavis Davidson.
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| Source: Mavis Davidson (via Archives NZ) |
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| Apr 2016 |
By Felicity Deverell
Felicity's work can be found here: http://felicitydeverell.blogspot.com/2015/01/drawing-cone-hut.html and https://issuu.com/felicitydeverellartist/docs/the_art_of_a_hut_cataloge
Cone Saddle Hut
A NZFS hut built in 1930 and dismantled in 1945 (in time for the Cone Hut opening - see above).
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection, Jan 1940 |
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection, photo 1942-1945 |
Cow Creek Hut
Cow Creek hut was built by the NZFS in 1960.
On this trip I was with Ian Atkinson and Simon Everett. We were on a December three day trip over Blue Range, down the Waingawa Valley and over into the Atiwhakatu.
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| Cow Creek Hut, Dec 2017 |
Dobson Bivy / Dobson Hut
Records suggest a "first Dobsons Bivvy erected by DR Hoggard and others" in 1921. I'm unsure about a second hut, but have a record of a third hut being constructed in 1941.
Hut four opened in November 1954 and possibly demolished by the army in 1994.
The following photo is labelled as first Dobson Hut.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Dorset Ridge Hut
I believe this to be the first Dorset Ridge Hut (1955) and actually located on the next spur east of the current hut. It was rebuilt in 1968 and ultimately removed when the NZFS built the existing six bunk hut.
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| Photo by Derrick Field taken in 1967 whilst deer culling for the NZFS |
Dracophyllum Hut
Dracophyllum Bivouac was built by the NZFS in 1966 and removed in the mid 2000's.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
The replacement hut was built in the mid 2000's. Photo to come
Dundas Hut
Another NZFS hut, built in 1960. Photo to come.
Eastern Hutt Hut
Alternatively known as 'hut with no name', located on the true left bank the hut is 50m back from the river. If you don't find the hut you'll most certainly find the helicopter landing pad 100m down-stream.
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| Apr 2017 |
Elder Hut
Elder Bivouac was built by the NZFS in 1963. I'm unsure of the location.
Elder Hut opened in March 2006, Elder Hut is not super busy as it's a fairly 'out of the way' spot, heading west to Renata and then a long-ish walk along the 4x4 road Waiotauru Road from Maymorn Junction.
We chose to drop down Ridge 666 to look for the hut hidden in the Snowy River.
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| Jan 2019 |
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| Jan 2019 |
Field Hut
Construction of the original hut with pit sawn timber in 1924. The hut was built over five months at a price of 430 pounds by Gibb and Fisk. It was significantly upgraded in 1981 and again in 2003.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Jan 2019 |
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| Jan 2019 |
By Felicity Deverell.
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| Felicity Deverell |
Harris Creek Hut
Harris Creek is in the Mangahao Valley, part way to Mangahao Flats Hut. I have passed by, but not seen much in the way of remnants.
The first Harris Creek Hut was constructed in 1938-39 and the second in 1946 (around 300 yards from the first). The hut below, the third, was constructed in 1977 by the Manawatu TC. It was removed in 2003 and has not been replaced.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
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| NZMS1 1979 |
Haukura Ridge Bivvy
Built by the NZFS in 1961 and removed in 1996 as it was subject to erosion.
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| Source: Steve Hudson |
Hector Dogbox
Hector Saddle Dogbox was built by the Tararua Tramping Club in 1922-23 at a cost of 60 pounds. It was built following the death of Harold Freeman during the club's first official traverse of the Southern Crossing.
The dogbox was blown over in 1929.
H.K. Douglas standing in front of the Hector Dogbox.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Herepai Hut
Herepai Hut replaces Putara Hut which burned down in 1977. The hut was built in 1980 by the NZFS with $1,000 of materials supplied by the Bush Tramping Club.
A fairly easy 2.5hr walk from the Putara road-end albeit with a grunt from 400m to 770m over an hour or so.
Two large bunks comfortably sleep 10.
The hut is on the bush edge below Herepai at the 800m contour.
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| Feb 2017 |
Holdsworth Lodge
Not a mountain hut as such, but road end lodgings at Mt Holdsworth carpark. The Lodge was opened in 1967. Must be booked these-days.
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| Mar 2017 |
From Holdsworth Lodge its a great walk to Powell Hut and on to the top of Mt Holdsworth, as described in this 1924 publication.
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| The Wairarapa - New Zealand, 1924 |
John Rhodes advises that Kainga Koa Hut was Bannister 1.
Island Forks Hut
Original Island Forks Bivvy removed.
Photo to come.
JACS Biv
The bivy was flown into its present site on 24 June 1998 for goat control. It was either the old Renata Forks Bivy or the Cow Creek Bivy. Personnel present were Joe Hanson (DoC Ranger), Andy Guddup (crewman), Tim Crum (local cop known as Crummie) adn Duncan Sutherland (helicopter pilot) hence the name JACS Bivy.
Probably originally built by Noel Fraser, Chris Main or Paul Gush in the 1960's for the NZFS.
[Information from Joe Hanson via John Rhodes (Tararua guru!).
The photo shows Zara Patete, Harriot and Guy Lane. We visited the hut over a February weekend, via Jumbo - Angle Knob - Shingle Slip, and continued on to Mid Waiohine and back over Mt Holdsworth.
In February 2019 the hut was musty and damp inside but would be welcome in bad weather.
Whilst put in by DoC this one isn't shown on any maps - apparently due to the difficult and committing access, so without giving away to much, it's on the true leftto the north of the big slip shown about 3.5km north of Mid Waiohine Hut.
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| Feb 2019 |
Joe Gibbs Memorial Hut
This is not a DoC hut so I will not give away to much detail, suffice to say that it is in the Tauherenikau Valley and with a little internet snooping a good description isn't to hard to find.
Joe Gibbs was born near Murchison on the Buller River. Growing up in this isolated area he learnt to be an expert bushman in its remote valleys. A horseman and accurate shot, he served in the Boer war. In 1908 he went to the western US and Canada, worked as a sawyer-axeman on the great Californian redwoods, panned gold and worked silver mines.
Back in New Zealand, he handled packhorses and sheep on Molesworth, then worked on the Wellington wharves. He joined the Tararua Tramping Club in 1921, leading a number of packhorse trips to new territory.
Never at home in the city, the Tararua Ranges became Joe's patch. In 1923 he cut the first Marchant Track, and in 1928 cleared the route from Tauherenikau to Totara Flats. But it was in hut building that he made his biggest mark. He helped extend the first Alpha Hut (1923), then built Field Hut for the Tararua Tramping Club (1924), pit sawing the framing timber on site. Then came the first Kime Hut (1930), and the first Tauherenikau Hut, where he often stayed. He was the Club's most experienced bushman, and also a great deerstalker. For these services he was made a Club life member in 1944.
[From "Memories of Joe Gibbs", by Frank Fitzgerald. Tararua Annual, 1990]
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| Sep 2017 |
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| From the wall of Field Hut |
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| Joe Gibbs - Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Jumbo Hut was built in 1981, replacing Angle Knob Hut. It was upgraded in 1993, and again around 2010-15 with new cladding and wind tie-downs.
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| Jumbo Hut - 1981, Joe Hanson Collection |
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| Jumbo Hut - 1981, Joe Hanson Collection |
With new tie-downs it's now safe in any wind.
Kaitoke Shelter Hut
Opened by the HVTC in 1958.
Kapakapanui Hut
Located at about the 840m contour, Kapakapanui Hut has six bunks and a nice wood fire.
An easy 2hr walk from the carpark.
Kime Hut
Kime Hut construction materials heading up the hill. The first hut was constructed by Gibbs and two at a price of 525 pounds in 1930 (and demolished in 1977).
And under construction.
This photo may include Joe Gibbs, one of the hut builders mentioned elsewhere in this paper.
The second Kime Hut was airdropped in 1978 and opened in April of that year.
And the new Kime Hut in 2019 - with Nicola, Nick and Missy Smith.
Kiriwhakapapa Shelter
Not a hut, but a road-end shelter.
Ample camping, toilets and water are available at Kiriwhakapapa road-end, 20 minutes north of Masterton.
Leo's Whare
Built by Leo Sayer on the main (TR bank) flat at Totara Flats. Date unknown.
Mangahao Flats Hut
Built in 1992 (noted elsewhere as Mangahao Lodge), replacing Avalanche Flats.
The hut is a four hour walk from the carpark (a long drive in), Mangahao Hut sleeps 16-18 easily.
Maungahuka Hut
The first hut was built in 1962 by the NZFS.
The following hut was built for the DoC by James Coubrough and colleague in 2006 to replace the original. It sleeps 10.
McGregor Biv
Built in 1963 by the NZFS. Photo to come.
Mid King Biv
Built by the NZFS in 1968. Photo to come.
Mid Waiohine Hut
Built by the NZFS in 1962.
The hut has been upgraded and painted by a group of ex NZFS deer cullers. It is now a superb hut to spend an evening in. Plenty of firewood around, and next to the mighlty Waiohine for swimming, fishing or, if you like, goat shooting.
Mitre Flats Hut
1933 - Mitre Flats # 1 built, finished in 1934 by the Masterton Tramping Club.
1952 - Mitre Flats # 2 built by the Masterton YMCA Tramping Club.
1988 - Mitre Flats # 3 opened.
Around 3.5 hours up the Waingawa Valley from 'The Pines' carpark. The first 40 minutes is over farmland.
Hut # 1
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| Jan 2018 |
Kaitoke Shelter Hut
Opened by the HVTC in 1958.
Located at about the 840m contour, Kapakapanui Hut has six bunks and a nice wood fire.
An easy 2hr walk from the carpark.
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| Apr 2017 |
Kime Hut
Kime Hut construction materials heading up the hill. The first hut was constructed by Gibbs and two at a price of 525 pounds in 1930 (and demolished in 1977).
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
And under construction.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
This photo may include Joe Gibbs, one of the hut builders mentioned elsewhere in this paper.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
The second Kime Hut was airdropped in 1978 and opened in April of that year.
And the new Kime Hut in 2019 - with Nicola, Nick and Missy Smith.
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| Jan 2019 |
Kiriwhakapapa Shelter
Not a hut, but a road-end shelter.
Ample camping, toilets and water are available at Kiriwhakapapa road-end, 20 minutes north of Masterton.
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| Feb 2017 |
Leo's Whare
Built by Leo Sayer on the main (TR bank) flat at Totara Flats. Date unknown.
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| Leo's Whare |
Mangahao Flats Hut
Built in 1992 (noted elsewhere as Mangahao Lodge), replacing Avalanche Flats.
The hut is a four hour walk from the carpark (a long drive in), Mangahao Hut sleeps 16-18 easily.
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| Oct 2018 |
Maungahuka Hut
The first hut was built in 1962 by the NZFS.
The following hut was built for the DoC by James Coubrough and colleague in 2006 to replace the original. It sleeps 10.
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| Jan 2020 |
McGregor Biv
Built in 1963 by the NZFS. Photo to come.
Mid King Biv
Built by the NZFS in 1968. Photo to come.
Mid Waiohine Hut
Built by the NZFS in 1962.
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| An old photo - source unknown |
The hut has been upgraded and painted by a group of ex NZFS deer cullers. It is now a superb hut to spend an evening in. Plenty of firewood around, and next to the mighlty Waiohine for swimming, fishing or, if you like, goat shooting.
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| Feb 2019 |
Mitre Flats Hut
1933 - Mitre Flats # 1 built, finished in 1934 by the Masterton Tramping Club.
1952 - Mitre Flats # 2 built by the Masterton YMCA Tramping Club.
1988 - Mitre Flats # 3 opened.
Around 3.5 hours up the Waingawa Valley from 'The Pines' carpark. The first 40 minutes is over farmland.
Hut # 1
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| Source: Joe Hansen collection |
Hut # 1
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| Dec 1940, Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| 1942-1945, Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Second Hut, age unknown (1952+), Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Oct 2016 |
Mountain House / Mountain House Shelter
1907 - Mountain House # 1 built by the Mt Holdsworth Club.
"Mountain House was a large two-roomed hut of corrugated iron in the clearing at the north-western and lowest end of Pig Flat, just where the climb to Powell starts. It was built in the pre-Maori bunk era and had several bunks. There was no floor and one of the rooms was merely a small one for sleeping." (Shelter In The Mountains).
The hut was extended in 1910 to sleep 40. Demolished in 1951.
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| Chimney delivery, Wairarapa Archive Collection |
This next picture, from Joe Hansen, was taken in 1907 and notes the builder, on the ladder, as G.M. Ross.  |
| Source: Joe Hansen. |
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| 1919, Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| 1938, Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Source: Joe Hansen. Undated |
1952 - Mountain House # 2 opened with 100 guests present. Built for 269 pounds. It was the first Tararua hut to use a perspex roof. 200 yards east of Hut # 1. It was built by the Wellington Tramping & Mountaineering Club.
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| Source: Joe Hansen Collection |
This is not my photo, but is the hut I remember visiting many times when I started tramping in the 1980's. The hut was removed in 2003 and replaced with a shelter, just to the south on the main track to Mt Holdsworth.
The pictured shelter below replaces a much larger hut, but suffices for the walk to Powell Hut and Mt Holdsworth.
Neill Forks Hut
Constructed in 1963 by the NZFS.
Nichols Hut
Constructed in 1963 by the NZFS and later replaced in 1981. A six bunk hut with superb views down the Waiohine Valley (better from the toilet). 40m below the main range track.
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| Source: Steve Hudson |
The pictured shelter below replaces a much larger hut, but suffices for the walk to Powell Hut and Mt Holdsworth.
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| Nov 2016 |
Neill Forks Hut
Constructed in 1963 by the NZFS.
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| Jan 2020 |
Nichols Hut
Constructed in 1963 by the NZFS and later replaced in 1981. A six bunk hut with superb views down the Waiohine Valley (better from the toilet). 40m below the main range track.
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| Jan 2022 |
North Mangahao Biv
To come.
North Ohau Hut
I'm unsure of the history of huts in the North Ohau however this early picture provided by Joe Hansen shows Red Costley at Noth Ohau Hut in either 1956 or 1957.
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| Source: Joe Hansen collection. |
The latest iteration of North Ohau is a lovely little four-bunk hut located up the North Ohau River. We visited in December 2019 with Nicholas and Missy Smith.
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| Dec 2019 |
Ohau Hut
Records indicate an "Ohau Hut" built in 1929-30 and destroyed in 1936. A second Ohau hut was built in 1936, opening in November of that year. Later, in 1978, Ohau Shelter was built, replacing Ohau Hut.
The following map identifies the location.
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| Source: John Rhodes |
Oriwa Bivouac
Located at the now dry Oriwa lake.
Built by the NZFS in 1967 and removed some 40 years later in 2007.
Due to the scarcity of water in the area, at the time of removal a small roof was constructed to feed a water tank. This was a god-send when I visited in January 2022.
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| Source: Steve Hudson |
Due to the scarcity of water in the area, at the time of removal a small roof was constructed to feed a water tank. This was a god-send when I visited in January 2022.
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| Jan 2022. Not a hut or biv, but a water supply |
Otaki Hut
This two-bunker was flown in in 2015 or 2016 and replaces an original removed in 1979.
This two-bunker was flown in in 2015 or 2016 and replaces an original removed in 1979.
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| Jan 2022 |
Parawai Lodge
To come.
Penn Creek Hut
Built by the NZFS in 1966. Photo to come.
Pig Flat Biv
Another bivy privately built (on a budget obviously). It's not marked on the maps, but as described is in the vicinity of Pig Flat.
Powell Hut
This (bottom pic) is possibly the original hut construction from 1939 (the opening was in May 1939 with 120 present).
Shelter In The Mountains records nine working parties between February and April 1939 to construct the hut, somewhat quicker than the professional builders today - a function of the Building Act and H&S requirements maybe.
I visited this one with my father when a very young fella.
Hut # 3 on the way.
Punga Hut / Miro Valley Hut
To come.
Putara Hut
This hut, on the Schorman Track, was built in 1952-52 and burned down in 1977. It belonged to the Bush Tramping Club.
To come.
Penn Creek Hut
Built by the NZFS in 1966. Photo to come.
Pig Flat Biv
Another bivy privately built (on a budget obviously). It's not marked on the maps, but as described is in the vicinity of Pig Flat.
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| Jan 2020 |
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| Jan 2020 |
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| Jan 2020 |
Powell Hut
This (bottom pic) is possibly the original hut construction from 1939 (the opening was in May 1939 with 120 present).
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| Joe Hanson Collection |
Shelter In The Mountains records nine working parties between February and April 1939 to construct the hut, somewhat quicker than the professional builders today - a function of the Building Act and H&S requirements maybe.
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| Opening in 1939 |
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
I visited this one with my father when a very young fella.
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| 1973, NZ Tramper |
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| Powell Hut # 2 Opening, 1981 |
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| Hut # 2 |
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| The remains of # 2 in May 1999 - Joe Hansen Collection |
Hut # 3 on the way.
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| Nov 1999 |
In August 2011 I did a cold winter run to Powell that took 5 hours - that's very slow.
The ice inside the hut was as bad as the outside!
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| Aug 2011 |
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| Nancy Sharp - Tararua Legend |
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| Opened Jul 2019. Photo Jan 2020 |
Punga Hut / Miro Valley Hut
To come.
Putara Hut
This hut, on the Schorman Track, was built in 1952-52 and burned down in 1977. It belonged to the Bush Tramping Club.
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
Renata Hut
Renata Hut opened in 1956.
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| Renata Hut - Jan 2022 |
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| Renata Hut - Jan 2022 |
Roaring Stag Hut
Roaring Stag Lodge was built in 1961. It was removed in the mid 2000's. It's not my photo, but I visited it many times in my teenage years.
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| From Hutbagger website |
And the replacement built by James Coubrough and colleague in 2004.
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| Aug 2018 |
Rovers Hut
I understand Rover Hut was located at Kiriwhakapapa, just as the climbing starts on the Blue Range track. The hut was built in 1934 and slept 12.
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| Wairarapa Archive Collection |
This next photo was provided by Joe Hansen, and was taken by Howitt in 1954.  |
| Source: Joe Hansen collection |
Sayer Hut
Apparently built by Richard Sayer and family in 1907 (Leo Sayer's father).
From Tony Gazley (Wellington Tramping & Mountaineering Club): Sayer Hut is one of the oldest tramping huts in the Tararuas and has a fascinating story to tell.
In 1878 Sayer and Potts were prospecting for gold at Totara Flats and accidentally burnt much of the bush on the river banks to form the flats that we know so well. In 1889 Sayer tried introducing hens to Totara Flats but they soon died out. Then in 1909 Sayer built his hut on the flats on the eastern side of the Waiohine River - the first private hut in the Tararuas - that is still standing today.
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| Leo Sayer and his dog. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
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| Sayer Hut 1942-25. Wairarapa Archive Collection The following photo shows the chimney on the north side of the hut, and is how I know it. Maybe someone can message me on this change. |
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
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| Aug 2017 |
John Rhodes advises that Leo Sayer later built his own hut "Leo's Whare" on the main flat across the river.
Smith Creek Hut / Smith Creek Shelter
Smith Creek Hut was built by the Public works Department in 1902 and was most likely the first hut in the Tararuas. It was later demolished.
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| Smith Creek Hut, 1942-45. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Construction of Smiths Creek Hut # 2 began in 1948 and finished in 1949. This hut lasted until 1965.
The next hut, # 3, was built in 1965 and opened by the WTMC.
Hut # 4 was built in 1983, has a concrete floor, is cold and uninviting.
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| Sep 2017 |
Snowy Hut
Not a DoC hut, but well known, Snowy Hut is in the Eastern Waiotauru (Snowy) River, and on the true left a couple of km's from the confluence with the Southern Waiotauru.
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| Jan 2019 |
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| Jan 2019 |
1997 sketch by Scotty Behrnes
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| Source: Tramper.nz |
South Ohau Hut
The first South Ohau Hut opening in 1948. I believe this is Hut # 1.
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| Source: Joe Hansen collection |
Hut # 1 was replaced in 1960-61 with the second hut being removed in 2003. The following photo, the third South Ohau Hut was constructed in 2008, 20 metres from the old site.
Spooner's Hut / Stag Spooner's Hut
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| Mar 2020 |
Spooner's Hut / Stag Spooner's Hut
I understand that Spooner's Hut was located at the 1020m contour on the northern track between Jumbo and the Atiwhakatu.
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
The following description is from Potton and Burton Publishing:
Stag (Neville) Spooner (1917-1946) was a government deer culler in 1939 and 1940, initially in the Tararuas, and then on the South Island’s West Coast. While his successful career as a culler was cut short by the Second World War, he did leave behind a remarkable legacy from this period, an illustrated diary of his experiences that he entitled Those Wild Men from the Bush. The diary is a fascinating chronicle of the life of a professional hunter, who somewhat unusually, was also an artist. Stag Spooner went on to create another highly individual body of art during the war, a series of decorated envelopes that were sent back to his family and friends.
His adventurous life started in the Wairarapa where he developed his love of hunting. He then became a deer culler, and saw active service during the Second World War in North Africa and Italy, as part of a Field Ambulance Unit.
Soon after his return to New Zealand, Stag’s life tragically ended on a hunting trip, alone, in the Fiordland mountains.
See also: https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/local-papers/wairarapa-news/entertainment/7343002/Stag-Spooners-diary-a-blend-of-art-and-history
Tarn Ridge Hut
The old Tarn Ridge Hut.
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
A photo of the new hut is still to come.
Tauherenikau Hut (possibly Top Tauherenikau Hut)
John Rhodes advises that Top Tauherenikau Hut was built in 1917 just up valley from the mouth of Reeves Stream - the site long gone due to river movement.
Tauherenikau Hut (possibly Top Tauherenikau Hut)
John Rhodes advises that Top Tauherenikau Hut was built in 1917 just up valley from the mouth of Reeves Stream - the site long gone due to river movement.
The following photo is (I believe) the first hut, and was taken by Ian Powell.
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| Source: Joe Hansen collection |
Records indicate that Top Tauherenikau Hut was built by W Workman under contract to the Greytown Track Committee, with 100 pounds from the Tourist Department. The structure is described as Melthoid over wire netting and Totara frame.
John Rhodes has confirmed that the following photo is of the TTC 'Chateau" on the true right of the river, between Canyon and Marchant creeks and was built in 1930. Due to river erosion it was dismantled and rebuilt near Canyon Creek in 1958. It burned down in 1975.
Tauherenikau Valley Possum Trappers Camp
The exact location of this camp is unknow. The photo was taken by Mavis Davidson in the 1960s.
John Rhodes has confirmed that the following photo is of the TTC 'Chateau" on the true right of the river, between Canyon and Marchant creeks and was built in 1930. Due to river erosion it was dismantled and rebuilt near Canyon Creek in 1958. It burned down in 1975.
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| 1942-45. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Tauherenikau Valley Possum Trappers Camp
The exact location of this camp is unknow. The photo was taken by Mavis Davidson in the 1960s.
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| Source: Mavis Davidson (via Archives NZ) |
Te Mara Hut
Believed built in 1936 by Masterton Rover Scouts. This may be also Rovers Hut?
Te Matawai Hut
Construction of the first Te Matawai Hut began in 1932 and finished in 1933, at a cost of $82.70 (CPI adjusted to $4,510 in 2020). It was extensively rebuilt in 1963.
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| 1942-45. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Te Matawai Hut # 2 was built in 1974 and is now on the Te Araroa Trail so gets plenty of use. One of the more average huts in the Tararuas - smelly, musty and moldy mattresses. Sleeps around 18.
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| Sep 2018 |
Te Moe Moe Hut, Mt Hector
Te Moe Moe Hut was built in 1919 by the Otaki Track Committee and was located in the bushline on Fields Track. It does not exist today.
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| 1921. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
Thornhill's Hut / Possumers Hut
Another 'private' hut, Thornhill's is just off the Kapakapanui Track at around 900m elevation. It's within 100m of the track so fairly easy to find.
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| Apr 2017 |
Top Hut
Joe Hansen provided the intel on this one. Top Hut was located in the upper Tauherenikau, below Bull Mound.
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
Totara Flats Hut
The location of Totara Flats Hut has moved over the years, from the north end (Totara Creek confluence), to the centre of the flats, and back again to the north.
Hut # 1 was built in 1948 fairly near the location of the current (2020) hut.
Hut # 1.
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| Source: Joe Hansen collection |
The following photo is Hut # 2. Whilst not my photo I did visite Hut # 2 a number of times. This hut was built in 1973 and sadly burned down in the early 2000's.
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| 1984, Hut # 2 |
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| Hut # 3 opened May 2003. Photo Aug 2017 |
Sleeps 26 comfortably.
It's a 30 minute walk down the flat and across the Waiohine to visit Sayer Hut.
Tutuwai Hut
Tutuwai opened in 1972.
Located on a bench just above the river, and around one hour south of Cone Hut.
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| Sep 2017 |
Upper Otaki Hut
May also be referred to as Mid Otaki Hut or Otaki Hut. See also Otaki Hut above.
Built by the NZFS in 1966.
The following picture is identified as Mid Otaki Hut. It was located where the Otaki Biodiversity Hut is currently located (as at 2022). In 1979 it was relocated to Anderson's.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
Map BN33 now (2022) shows the hut below as Otaki Hut. I believe it has also been called Otaki Biodiversity Hut and Mid Otaki Hut. It is a two-bunker and was put here in 2005, and is the first hut in the upper Otaki since 1979.
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| Jan 2022 |
Reference: BN33 985 838.
Vosseler Hut
Built by TTC and the NZFS in 1959 however records indicate it wasn't opened until 1964. It was removed in 1979 due to Kime Hut #2 opening in 1978.
Waikawa Shelter
I have no knowledge of this shelter, apparently in the Ohau River valley. Built in 1981.
Waiopehu Hut
Waiopehu Hut # 1 was built in 1927 and destroyed in 1936 when a storm blew the hut 300 feet down the ridge.
Waiopehu Hut # 2 was built in 1947, opening in May of that year.
The current hut,# 3, opened in 2002 is approximately four hours from Poads Road - further up the ridge than the original, and opened in 2002.
Waiotauru Hut
Waiotauru Hut # 2 was built by the NZFS in 1972.
The following photo is of # 2 - a dive, concrete floor and wet. I got to this one by motorbike.
Waiotauru Hut was replaced in 2019 - yet to be visited and photographed.
Waitewaewae Hut
Waitewaewae I - Whare-iti built by HVTC in winter of 1935. By 1963 only the chimney remained.
Waitewaewae II opened on 2 December 1950.
Waitewaewae III built in 1991.
Photo to come.
Waitohu Lodge
To come.
Walls Whare
Walls Whare # 1 was built near Bassett's Hut at the foot of the Mt Reeves track. It was taken over by the WTMC in September 1949 and demolished in July 1959. Hut #2 (below) was built in 1960.
I'm unsure if this is Hut # 2 or not?
I visited this road-end hut many times in the mid-late 1980's. It suffered vandalism due to its easy access and was ultimately demolished.
Whare-iti Hut
HVTC built Whare-iti Hut at Waitewaewae Forks, opening the hut in 1935. Only the chimney remained by 1963.
Winchcombe Bivouac
Built by the NZFS in 1966 and removed in the mid 1980's.
It was soon replaced with a second bivvy but this was removed in 1988 and relocated into the Western Hutt catchment.
A new biv installed in 2020/2021 will be visited and photographed shortly.
Vosseler Hut
Built by TTC and the NZFS in 1959 however records indicate it wasn't opened until 1964. It was removed in 1979 due to Kime Hut #2 opening in 1978.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
Waikawa Shelter
I have no knowledge of this shelter, apparently in the Ohau River valley. Built in 1981.
Waiopehu Hut # 1 was built in 1927 and destroyed in 1936 when a storm blew the hut 300 feet down the ridge.
Waiopehu Hut # 2 was built in 1947, opening in May of that year.
The current hut,# 3, opened in 2002 is approximately four hours from Poads Road - further up the ridge than the original, and opened in 2002.
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| Sep 2018 |
Waiotauru Hut
Waiotauru Hut # 2 was built by the NZFS in 1972.
The following photo is of # 2 - a dive, concrete floor and wet. I got to this one by motorbike.
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| Oct 2017 |
Waiotauru Hut was replaced in 2019 - yet to be visited and photographed.
Waitewaewae Hut
Waitewaewae I - Whare-iti built by HVTC in winter of 1935. By 1963 only the chimney remained.
Waitewaewae II opened on 2 December 1950.
Waitewaewae III built in 1991.
Photo to come.
Waitohu Lodge
To come.
Walls Whare
Walls Whare # 1 was built near Bassett's Hut at the foot of the Mt Reeves track. It was taken over by the WTMC in September 1949 and demolished in July 1959. Hut #2 (below) was built in 1960.
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| Hut # 2 1970. Wairarapa Archive Collection |
I'm unsure if this is Hut # 2 or not?
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| Source: Joe Hansen |
I visited this road-end hut many times in the mid-late 1980's. It suffered vandalism due to its easy access and was ultimately demolished.
Whare-iti Hut
Winchcombe Bivouac
Built by the NZFS in 1966 and removed in the mid 1980's.
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| Source: Steve Hudson |
It was soon replaced with a second bivvy but this was removed in 1988 and relocated into the Western Hutt catchment.
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| Source: Hutbagger.co.nz |
A new biv installed in 2020/2021 will be visited and photographed shortly.
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