Ongaruanuku Hut
The place
Private hut of the Auckland University Tramping Club (AUTC), located in the Waitakere Ranges just west of Auckland. The name Ōngāruanuku means "Meeting place of wizards" in Māori. Originally the old cookhouse of a logging camp nicknamed "Simla hut", the AUTC obtained ownership from Auckland City Council in 1944 and opened the hut in its current form on 27 August 1944, after a major campaign of demolition, rebuilding, decorating, and glazing. Twelve bunks, running water, generally in good condition, with a typical atmosphere featuring a piano and student humor. Used year-round for orientation camps, Bush School, birthdays, Christmas parties, and as a base for expeditions in the Waitakere Ranges. Book through the AUTC.
Getting there
Trails from the roads of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Booking through the Auckland University Tramping Club.
The setting
Native forest of the Waitakere Ranges, west of Auckland.
