Mt Ruapehu Volcanic Alert level remains at Level 1.
DOC recommends that the public and concessionaires do not enter the area 1.5km from the centre of Te Wai â-moe/Crater Lake due to the increased uncertainty and potential increased risk of eruption per DOC’s volcanic risk management plan.
Eruptions can occur at any time without warning. The closer you are to Crater Lake and the longer you stay, the higher the risk you are exposed to.
For more information on volcanic risk at Mt Ruapehu from Geonet click here DOC click here.
East Side, Mt Ruapehu
Summary:
This alpine hut is located high up beside the Whangaehu valley on the slopes on the active volcano Mt Ruapehu. It is a great location for rock climbing in summer, ski touring and mountaineering in winter, and generally exploring this remote area of the Tongariro National Park.
Location:
At 2080m, above the Whangaehu River, east side of Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park.
Access:
Off Desert Rd to Tukino Skifield, then 1.5hrs on poled/cairned route from the road end, 15m marker pole close to the hut.
The hut is not locked. If you have a 4WD and want access through the locked gate, there is a $20 key deposit (see under bookings).
Facilities:
The toilet at the hut is no longer usable, poo pots or similar must be carried and pack out waste.
4 double bunks with mattresses (so can sleep 8), water tank, some utensils.
Non-flush toilet only. Poo pots recommended.
Fees:
Members $10 per night
Non-members $20 per night
Bookings:
Contact: Len Caley 021 534 251 or email. The hut is open, so can't be reserved, but by contacting Len first, you will be able to gain access through the ski-field locked gate and get an idea of who else may be using the hut at a given time.
The Auckland Section of NZAC often runs courses and trips in this area. To find out more, please check out their section page.
Location map:
Point Location:
POINT(175.5888176 -39.28243021)
NZTopo50: BJ34 233 487
NZMS260 (old): T20 333 103
NOTE: You need to log in first, when booking, to obtain member rates.