Newton Creek Hut, in the Arahura Valley near Hokitika, has received a thorough makeover.

Builder Eric Saggers, ex-Arthur’s Pass ranger John Charles and Peter Mortlock did seven 12-hour days to get the hut back into shape. They were joined by Permolat members Andrew Buglass and Joke de Rijke over the weekend to help with the painting and repiling work.

The hut was gutted and rebuilt. Photo: Rob Brown

The hut had a serious rat infestation that started in about 2012, and combined with a leaking roof was all but ruined over the intervening years.

Rob Brown applied for funding from the Outdoor Recreation Consortium to fund the rebuild. He said the hut is in a “magic spot”. Nearby Newton Creek is also an ideal whio/blue duck habitat.

“The hut is easily accessible in a weekend trip up the Arahura River Valley,” Brown said. “Many people also use the Newton Saddle route as part of a West Coast finish to the classic 3-Passes trans-alpine tramping trip.

Thanks to the efforts of the small team, it’s a place that can expect a steady flow of people to this part of the West Coast.