In the heart of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes, a unique volunteer army emerges, dedicated to preserving the country's iconic hiking huts. These shelters, ranging from cozy two-person havens to a sprawling 54-bunk fortress, dot the countryside, offering weary adventurers a respite from the wilderness. While some huts grace the renowned Milford and Routeburn tracks, others are nestled in secluded valleys, providing breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush forests.
However, the sheer scale of this public network presents a challenge. The government struggles to maintain every inch, prompting ordinary Kiwis to take matters into their own hands. Armed with cleaning supplies, they venture into the hills, driven by a desire to protect these cherished spaces.
Among them is Suzie Bell, a British expat who discovered the joy of 'tramping' in New Zealand. Her initial encounter with the huts left her in awe, captivated by the idea of staying in these epic, remote shelters for a nominal fee. Most of these huts are accessible only by foot, with hikers bringing their own food and disposing of their waste responsibly. Smaller huts, accommodating four or fewer bunk beds, are even free to use.
Bell's appreciation for the huts' unique features, such as the honesty box payment system and the camaraderie among fellow travelers, inspired her to give back. She joined the 'Love our Huts' campaign, an initiative led by the Federated Mountain Club (FMC), an outdoor recreation advocacy group. Over 300 people have pledged their support, demonstrating a collective commitment to preserving these cultural treasures.
Liz Wightwick, an executive committee member of FMC and an avid tramper, emphasizes the huts' significance as part of New Zealand's cultural heritage. She believes that the campaign showcases the public's dedication to caring for these cherished spaces. With over 950 huts across the country, their history dates back to the late 1800s, initially serving gold miners, surveyors, and deer hunters. Over time, they became vital for conservation efforts and forestry workers.
This summer, volunteers have spruced up over 500 huts, including the Clark Hut in Fiordland National Park, where psychologist Jo Clark and her daughters, Freda and Ada, spent five hours cleaning. The girls, aged 13 and 11, shared their experience, recounting how they wiped down mattresses, cleaned windows, and removed surrounding weeds. Jo Clark, a psychologist, highlights the importance of these efforts, as she believes that without dedicated volunteers, these huts might not receive the necessary upkeep.
The conservation department's acting director, Eamonn Whitham, acknowledges the challenges posed by the huts' vastness, remoteness, and vulnerability to severe weather. He emphasizes the crucial role of enthusiastic New Zealanders in maintaining these beloved huts and tracks. Many huts, like Top Otoroh Bivvy, are isolated and visited only a few times a year, making the volunteers' efforts even more significant.
For Bell and many others, the initiative transcends hut maintenance; it's about carving out quality time to reconnect with family. Bell's commitment to 'leaving things better than you find them' resonates with the Māori concept of kaitiakitanga, where guardianship of the environment entails protecting it for future generations. Amidst the global challenges, Bell finds solace in making a tangible impact within her community, taking care of the huts in her backyard.
