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: Dean Stringer 0211 426 493 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.