Waitakere
Hut
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Since 1929 Alpine Sports
Club has had 5 bush huts. Three of these no longer exist and of the other two,
one remains unused and the other, the Waitakere Hut, has recently been rebuilt with
better facilities and a secure carpark.
The Alpine Sports Club Waitakere hut is regularly used as a base for weekend tramping in the Waitakere ranges, bushcraft and search and rescue training courses and as a venue for a variety of club social functions. Alpine Sports Club often rents the hut for weekends to approved groups. A number of local schools use the hut for outdoor programs such as the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. For more information contact the Waitakere Hut officer on (09) 846-4902 or email us.
The Waitakere hut is located roughly central to the Regional Parks track network and is isolated enough to give a sense of remoteness, even though it is only 50 minutes from downtown Auckland.
There is a 10 minute walk from the carpark to the hut up a bush track. Power and cooking facilities are provided and there are bunks sufficient for about 20 people.
The drawing (above) shows the original hut and the photographs are scenes of the new hut soon after construction and the party to celebrate its completion. An ablutions block has since been added with hot showers powered by a solar heater.
There
is plenty to see and do in the Waitakere Ranges. Historically, the Waitakeres are notable for Kauri Timber milling which took place between about 1840 and
1930. Up until about 1920, Kauri logs were driven down the streams to the road
ends by the use of Kauri dams such as the one shown here. While this dam was
built in the Kauaeranga Valley, there are still the remnants of old kauri dams
in the streams and rivers of the Waitakere Ranges today. The volcanic origins
of the Waitakeres makes for rugged scenery and spectacular views. There are
still stands of Kauri in the ranges today.
Members
Retreat
A members retreat weekend has been programmed where the hut will be available for open use by club members. The weekends scheduled include :-
Club Xmas Party December 8th
(See Tours Program)
If you are staying overnight then you will need to contact the Waitakere Hut Officer on (09) 846-4902 (phone & fax)
Seen here is our Waitakere hut officer. Contrary to popular belief, he is a very human person who can be relied upon to do his utmost to help you. Outside groups and club members alike need not fear to ring Joe to request bookings. His number is (09) 846-4902 (phone & fax) or you can send us an email.
Actually Joe and his team have worked hard to rebuild the hut and maintain it in the condition that it is in now. Recent additions include a new solar shower and ablutions block with covered access from the main rooms.
Come and rediscover the Waitakere Ranges!
Alpine Sports Club inc. P.O. Box 131, Auckland, New Zealand. email email@alpinesport.org.nz