Construction of Oturere Hut on the Tongariro Northern Circuit is on schedule for the start of the Great Walk Season in October, but Mangatepopo Track remains closed after last year’s fires.

With the damaged section unavailable this coming summer, the Tongariro Northern Circuit will operate as an end-to-end tramp between the Mangatepopo Rd end and Whakapapa Village, the Department of Conservation (DoC) said in a media release today.

Principal ranger Jenny Hayward said it would still be a Great Walk experience and contractors had been working hard during every good weather window to deliver the new hut on time.

“Of course, any kind of work in Tongariro National Park is weather dependent, but we’re making great progress so far.”

Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro and DoC have worked together to design the new 28-bed hut, which they say will improve the experience and safety of walkers on the Tongariro Northern Circuit.

“There’s a really solid frame in place now and we’re starting to see the shape of what’s to come,” Hayward said.

“We’ve also made sure there is a separate shelter for campers, so it’s not everyone crowding in to use the same facilities.

Construction of Oturere Hut on the Tongariro Northern Circuit.

“It’s going to make for a far better overnight experience for everyone who is out there naturing.”

With the opening of the new hut, the Tongariro Northern Circuit will resume its Great Walk status after a hiatus last season.

Hayward said there would be a slight alteration to how the Great Walk operated this season.

“The fires late last year really hit the Mangatepopo Track, and the affected structures won’t be repaired in time for safe use this summer.

“So, the Great Walk will be less of a circuit, more of an arc between Mangatepopo Road end and Whakapapa Village.

“It’ll be worth considering your transport options in advance, and we’ll have some guidance about this on the DoC website.

“The good news is we’ve been doing a lot of work to improve the tracks in the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and Tama Lakes sections, and you can look forward to a better walking experience,” Hayward said.

Bookings for Tongariro Northern Circuit open at 9.30am on May 21, via the DoC website.