Rangiwahia Hut

When it comes to huts, some merely shelter from the storm, while others are a place to relax and take some time. Rangi (As it's also known) is a hut that exceeded expectations. An escape from civilisation. Huts' easily accessible under 2 hours from the road end all too often remind us why we want to escape civilisation. Vandalised and in poor shape, sometimes extenuating circumstances mean there is no choice but to downgrade them to a shelter or remove them entirely.

Rangiwahia hut was breath of fresh air and a credit to the clubs that use it and those who stayed the night before. The winter day treated me to spectacular views of the Central Plateau, its snow-covered glory from the front doorstep, a spectacle to rival that of Pouakai Hut, another accessible exceedingly popular gem.
No wonder this is a well-used track.

Getting there:

Take Te Parapara Rd and turn onto Ronfrew road. Follow this to the end. Carparking is available through the gate (2 gates) to the left at the road end. Leave all gates as found.

Smiles per hour rating: 4/5
Wildlife: 1/2
Scenic: 1
History / Points of interest: 1
Quiet / Relaxed: 1/2
Visit again: 1

As seen in our Down in a hole episode on YouTube