A new hut on Great Barrier Island’s Mt Heale has opened. The Mt Heale Hut adds to the island’s considerable track network and makes it possible for trampers to have a multi day experience, said Des Casey, DOC’s community relations manager for Great Barrier.

“The hut allows trampers to have a two night, three day adventure. It’s quite an asset for us to be able to offer the public,” he said.

The new hut is located in a saddle below Mt Heale on the South Fork Track of the island. “It gives magnificent views across Fitzroy Harbour to Little Barrier Island,” said Casey.

Visitors can stay one night at the hut and can then walk out or continue on to Kaiaraara Hut or to one the island’s many campsites. The hut has gas cooking, water, two toilets and two rooms with a total of 20 bunks. The hut is currently working on a first come, first served basis.

Casey said the island is popular with a lot of campers this year and that some of the island’s campsites are full. He recommends visiting the DOC website for information about availability.