Image: Roseanne Taurima | Creative Commons
Exterior of Slaty Creek Hut.
Slaty Creek Hut

Located in Ahaura River and Lake Brunner catchments area in the West Coast region

The historic Slaty Creek Hut was originally built as a winter project in 1952 by deer cullers. It is now used by recreational hunters, trampers and climbers.

Fees

Free

Heritage 

The historic Slaty Creek Hut was originally built as a winter project in 1952 by deer cullers. It is believed to have replaced Climo's hut, which had burned down. 

It is now used by recreational hunters, trampers and climbers.

Read more tales about this hut in the DOC Conservation blog post: If these walls could talk... deer culler huts tell tales of our past – 20 February 2012

Historic significance

A rare example of a hut built by cullers, largely from hand-hewn materials.

Management

Waiheke River Track, Department of Conservation.

Fabric

A hut built of pit-sawn tōtara slabs, with an iron roof. It contains four bunks, a bench, stools and has an open fire. The hut stands in a small clearing amid beech trees where Slaty Creek meets the Waiheke River, an upper Ahaura tributary.

Fabric significance

The pit-sawn tōtara slab construction is an old method seldom seen today.

Future management

The hut will continue to be used for recreation on the Amuri Pass tramping route. The hut will continue to be maintained to protect its historic fabric and minimise deterioration.

This is a backcountry hut with no DOC track access. You will need to plan your route and navigate yourself, using aids like a map, compass and GPS. Learn navigation skills.

Location

NZTopo50 map sheet: BU22
Grid/NZTM2000 coordinates: E1524841, N5289303

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely