The Orange Bucket Challenge

The Greater Wellington Backcountry Network (GWBN) has tasked VUWTC with delivering maintenance supplies to several huts. This will support their awesome Caring For Our Huts project, which encourages everyone to "do their bit" to look after Aotearoa's treasured huts.

https://gwbn.org.nz/caring-for-our-huts-2/

We'll be looking for leaders to design their own club trips featuring a 5kg orange bucket! Reach out to Justin (hut maintenance officer) or Jack/Robyn (chief guides) if you're keen :)

Available huts (click on green text for more info!):

EASY: Atiwhakatu Hut

Tararua Forest Park, a 2hr drive from Welly. $10-15 per night. This is a spacious 26 bunker, just a 1-3hr flat walk from the Mt Holdsworth carpark. It requires bookings, but is a fantastic spot with a nice river to swim in. Many options: chill overnighter, add in Jumbo and Powell for a loop, go down a poor track to Mitre Flats, even further to McGregor or Mid King Bivs, or something else!

MEDIUM: Kawakawa Hut

Aorangi Forest Park, a 2hr drive. $10 per night. 6 bunks. Could complete as part of the famous Aorangi Crossing over multiple days, or a return trip via Mangatoetoe hut. If you can get permission, a 2hr journey down Kawakawa Stream from the road. Or even a crazy bush bash route? Add in a bonus visit to Cape Palliser lighthouse?

HARD: Arete Hut

Tararua Forest Park. Free to stay at. 2 bunks, but some camping space. North, South, East, West: so many options! Most direct is via Poads Rd and Te Matawai Hut, a 1hr 15min drive and 8-9hr walk. Could alternatively cross the tops from Dundas Peak in the north, or Tarn Ridge in the south. Or the much-loved track from Blue Range and Arete Forks? What about a Carkeek picnic, or the popular Bannister Crossing? There's sooo many choices!