Anderson Memorial Hut

The place

Standard DOC hut, 6 bunks, in Tararua Forest Park (Wellington/Kapiti), between Junction Knob (1,375 m) and Kahiwiroa (1,320 m). In forest, with views 200 m north of the building. **Originally built in 1948 by the Deer Control Section using helicopter-delivered materials — the first alpine hut in the world to be built by helicopter, in New Zealand**. Current structure dates from 1978, incorporating materials from the dismantled Mid-Otaki Hut. **Named after pilot Oliver Anderson, who died delivering supplies to Fiordland deer hunters**. Best accessed from Otaki Forks (western side of the Tararua) via Waitewaewae Hut (3-4 h) — Otaki Forks is 1 h 30 from Wellington or Palmerston North via Otaki Gorge Road. Rates: NZ$15/7.50 adult/youth, free under 5. A stage on the Main Range route.