Spurs Hut, Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park

Huts in cold, wet weather are like a magnet for trampers. The warmth, comfort and shelter they offer is unequalled after a bitter day in the hills. 

Spurs Hut in the Upper Orari River is no exception. Returning cold and damp from a hike onto the tops of nearby Walkers Spur on the Ben McLeod Range, my companion and I were pleased to get inside, sit near the fire with a mug of tea and, with our warm socks and shoes on, enjoy the ambience as cold rain fell outside.

The hut, though remote, is easily accessed and provides an opportunity to climb the nearby summits or perhaps visit Butler Saddle, 1727m, at the head of Butlers Creek. Travel beyond this point, however, is not possible without permission from Ben McLeod Station. 

Yet the hut holds enough charm and history to make a visit here memorable especially with the fire cranked up on a cold and blustery southerly day. (Collect firewood en route to the hut as there is little in the surrounding area.)