Description
East Side, Mt Ruapehu
Mt Ruapehu Volcanic Alert level has been lowered to Level 1. The 2km exclusion zone that was in place has been lifted. A sudden resumption of activity is more likely than the last time Ruapehu was at VAL 1 due to the recent activity so care is still needed. For more information from Geonet click here DOC click here.
Summary:
This mountaineers hut is located high up beside the Whangaehu valley on the slopes on the active volcano Mt Ruapehu. It is a great location for climbing, ski touring 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.
Detailed map below.
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:
4 double bunks with mattresses (so can sleep 8), water tank, some utensils.
Non-flush toilet only. Poo pots recommended.
Fees:
Fees are payable here, or to the NZAC National Office, PO Box 786, Christchurch 8140. Rates as from 1 November 2013.
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.
