Lower Matakuhia Hut
The place
Former DOC hut in New Zealand. The DOC page is unreachable (404), likely removed from the Te Urewera hut network as part of the demolition program begun in 2022 by Te Uru Taumatua / Ngāi Tūhoe. Status to be confirmed on site.
Getting there
Basic DOC hut maintained by hunters. The track climbs to a saddle below Opureke (1107 m) then down to the Matakuhia River. Well marked at first, overgrown on the descent. Two short gorges to cross (impassable in high water). WARNING: DOC's Te Urewera demolition program is underway (15 huts demolished, 33 more planned by end of 2024).
The setting
Te Urewera / Waipunga Conservation Area (North Island, Hawke's Bay), 38.93°S 176.60°E, New Zealand. Located in a grassy clearing. Track starts about 800 m from the road. Wildlife: kereru, wax eyes, fantails, tui.
A bit of history
Hut included in the controversial DOC hut demolition program in Te Urewera (co-managed with Ngāi Tūhoe iwi): at least 15 huts recently demolished, 33 more scheduled for demolition by the end of 2024. Source: NZ Herald.
