In the heart of New Zealand's breathtaking countryside, a remarkable volunteer army is hard at work, ensuring that the nation's iconic hiking huts remain a haven for weary travelers. These huts, ranging from intimate two-person shelters to grand 54-bunk fortresses, are scattered across the land, offering breathtaking views of snowy peaks and lush wilderness. But here's where it gets controversial: the government, despite its best efforts, cannot maintain this vast network of huts on its own. And this is where the real story begins.
Enter Suzie Bell, a UK transplant who fell in love with New Zealand's hiking culture, or 'tramping,' as it's known locally. Suzie's first encounter with these remote huts left her in awe. "The idea that you can find these incredible huts, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, and stay there for next to nothing is just mind-blowing," she shares. Most of these huts are accessible only by foot, and trampers must carry their own food and pack out their trash. The smaller huts, with their cozy four-bunk capacity, are free to use, fostering a sense of community and respect for the environment.
"I love the honesty and trust that comes with using these huts," Suzie explains. "The fact that everyone cleans up after themselves and the sense of camaraderie you find with total strangers is truly special." Suzie's passion for these huts inspired her to join the 'Love our Huts' cleaning campaign, an initiative started by the Federated Mountain Club (FMC), a local outdoor recreation advocacy group. Over 300 people have signed up to be part of this movement, demonstrating the deep cultural value these huts hold for New Zealanders.
Liz Wightwick, an FMC executive committee member and avid tramper, emphasizes the importance of these huts: "They're part of our cultural heritage, and we want to ensure they're preserved for future generations. This campaign is a testament to the care and dedication New Zealanders have for their huts." With over 950 huts across the country, the challenge of maintaining them is immense. The first huts, built in the late 1800s, served various purposes, from gold mining and surveying to mustering. Later, they became vital for conservation efforts, providing shelter for deer hunters and forestry workers. In the late 1980s, these huts were unified under a national network, managed by the Department of Conservation.
This summer, over 500 huts have been given a much-needed refresh by dedicated volunteers. Psychologist Jo Clark and her daughters, Freda and Ada, embarked on a five-hour hike to reach Clark Hut in Fiordland National Park, armed with rubber gloves, cleaning supplies, and a mission to make a difference. Freda, 13, and Ada, 11, took on the task of wiping down mattresses, cleaning windows, and removing surrounding weeds. "It's up to people like us to keep these huts clean and well-maintained," Freda observes.
Eamonn Whitham, acting director of heritage and visitors at the conservation department, acknowledges the challenge: "The size, remoteness, and severe weather conditions make sustaining this hut network incredibly difficult. We are immensely grateful for the enthusiastic New Zealanders who give their time and energy to keep our beloved huts and tracks safe and in good condition." For some volunteers, like Suzie Bell, the initiative is about more than just hut maintenance; it's an opportunity to reconnect with family and instill important values.
After a four-hour tramp through rolling tussock hills to reach the A-Frame Hut in Hakatere Conservation Park, Suzie and her children, Liam (5) and James (7), got straight to work tidying up. "I always try to teach the kids the importance of leaving things better than you found them and doing something nice for the next person," Suzie says. This philosophy, she explains, is rooted in the Māori concept of kaitiakitanga, which emphasizes our role as guardians of the environment, responsible for protecting it for future generations.
"In a world where so many horrendous things are happening, it can feel overwhelming. But I believe in focusing on what we can control and fix. In this case, it's taking care of the huts right here in our backyard," Suzie adds.
So, the next time you find yourself in New Zealand, consider lending a hand to these dedicated volunteers. After all, it's not just about maintaining these iconic huts; it's about preserving a way of life and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and camaraderie that these huts represent.
