This Forest Service four bunker has been recently lavished with love. It’s had a new paint job and everything inside has been  neatly repaired. The track to it has also been given some attention and is well-marked.

Even with young children the walk shouldn’t take more than three hours each way. Young trampers will enjoy the varied terrain with river crossings, some rope-assisted ascents and descents and attractive bush.

Access is via Waiorongomai Station, off Western Lake Road, towards the coast from Fetherston. The farmers have always allowed trampers’ access through the property. To start, you can drive through the farm to a reserve area with picnic tables and a toilet. It’s a lovely place to have a picnic before or after the tramp.

From here, it’s straight into wet feet territory with a descent into, and crossing of, the Waiorongomai River. This trip is best done in dry weather, as there are frequent river crossings.

The track follows the river all the way to the hut alternating from one side to the other. Track markers are well placed and there’ll never be trouble following the route. In some places there are steep scrambles. Helpful ropes have been placed in these spots.

The hut is in an attractive clearing with plenty of room for camping. If you’re there on a summer weekend, take a tent because there’s only four bunks. There’s an open fireplace, a stone fire circle outside, and water from the river.

If children are along, get there in plenty of time so they can explore the surrounding bush and build dams in the river. Then after dinner, roast marshmallows over the outside fire and enjoy the night sky.