DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION - POWELL HUT REBUILT AND OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Commissioned by the Department of Conservation (DoC), Pynenburg & Collins Architects designed the new Powell Hut to replace the previous hut which had weathertightness issues leading to structural problems.
Located above the bushline, the hut has been designed to withstand alpine conditions including winds of up to 260km/hour and snow on the ground throughout much of the winter.
For the thermal comfort of occupants, the hut is well insulated with double-glazed joinery, cavity construction cladding and ventilation to cope with extreme weather. Space heating is provided by a wood burner with storage for plenty of wood in an adjacent storage shed. East and north-facing windows maximise the available sun and light into the living area.
Being the most popular hut in the Tararua Ranges, we created a 32-bunk capacity mix of platform and individual bunks, spread across four separate bunk rooms. A large and separate cooking and dining area, with large windows facing east, provides a spectacular view over the Wairarapa.
A spacious deck runs along the east side to provide plenty of outdoor space for visitors to fully enjoy the mountain environment as well as the panoramic views of the Wairarapa Valley from a height of 1200m.
Powell Hut was officially opened on 12 July 2019 and we joined Department of Conservation, trampers and some locals at the small opening ceremony.
https://www.doc.govt.nz/news/media-releases/2019/iconic-power-hut-opens-its-doors/
For more information on Powell Hut, please click the following link:
