A history of huts
The Kaimai Ridgeway Charitable Trust (KRT) was formed in 2015 and is managed by representatives from many tramping clubs, deerstalker branches and lots of individuals all with the clear ambition of working in consultation with both DOC and Iwi to improve all of the tracks and huts throughout the Kaimai, utilising volunteer effort.
Since then, 18,000 hours of volunteering has been invested in the backcountry facilities. Most of the 120 plus kilometres of tracks and the seven huts under the KRT Care and Maintenance Programme have improved significantly and are greatly appreciated by an ever-increasing number of trampers, school groups, family groups and hunters.
Here follows a brief history and information on the tracks and huts maintained by KRT Volunteers in the Kaimai backcountry.
Te Whare Okioki
Opened in October 2019 and owned by KRT, this hut was built by volunteers with the generous support from the NZ Backcountry Trust, as well as other organisations and individuals. A high spec 12 bunk hut with a huge covered deck, log fire, wash-up sink, great water supply and plenty of space for camping. Located on the north-south track at the site of the old Ngamuwahine Shelter. One hour south of the Te Tuhi junction, four hours from Whakamārama Road and six hours north of the Kaimai Summit. Bookings required via the DOC web site.
Te Rereatukahia Hut
A 12 bunk hut was re-vamped by KRT in 2015, including extending the deck to house a bench and sink, installation of a log burner, the building of a woodshed and a complete paint inside and out. The historic muddy tracks in the area have been greatly improved with boardwalks and better drainage initiatives. It is often described by many people as their favourite hut, and there is a great view from Baldy Knob. Located high above Katikati with access from both sides of the Kaimai via Hot Springs Road,
Wharawhara Road, Wairākau Road (Waikato) and the north-south track. Hut tickets required.
Daly’s Clearing Hut
Re-painted by volunteers about 10 years ago, this 16 bunk hut is in the Waihī area. There are two separate bunk rooms, wash-up facilities and a small covered deck. Situated in the lower Waitawheta valley area with dual access from Franklin Road. There is plenty of space for camping and it is popular with school groups and families. There is good access from Franklin Road or via the tracks from the north or south. Hut tickets required.
KRT also maintains four ex-Deer Cullers Huts throughout the Kaimai. These are basic three- or four-bunk huts.
Hurunui Hut: Situated three hours north on the Kaimai Summit. Access from Henderson trams or Whakamārama.
Mangamuka Hut: On the western Kaimai fringe with access from Te Tuhi Road and the north-south track. Difficult terrain.
Motutapere Hut: On the north-south track two hours south of the Tūāhu Saddle or north from Thompsons Track Saddle.
Kauritatahi Hut: High up on the Ngatamahinerua tops two hours south of Thompson’s track saddle. In difficult terrain and subject to claggy weather.
We are looking for more volunteers, preferably quite fit with sound outdoor experience to join us. If you would like to help with our volunteer work, please go to our website kaimairidgeway.nz or email us on kaimairidgeway@gmail.com We are volunteers improving the backcountry tracks and huts in the Kaimai Range for all to enjoy!