20 June 2007

New Orange Hut pit stop, deep in Akatarawa Forest

The public has a chance to do some four wheel driving in Akatarawa Forest on Sunday 1 July to celebrate the opening of the ‘Orange Hut’ and raise funds for Mary Potter Hospice in memory of Marian Wilson – a member of the Tararua Four Wheel Drive Club who died last year.

Members of the Tararua Four Wheel Drive Club and the Akatarawa Recreational Access Committee (ARAC) have rebuilt the Orange Hut following an arson attack on the previous structure two years ago. The hut is a well-known meeting point for 4WD drivers, quad and trail bike riders, mountain bikers and trampers. It provides emergency shelter, camping facilities and a central meeting point for all forest users.

Tararua Four Wheel Drive club member Graham Wilson says: “The hut is an essential facility so there was never any doubt that it would be rebuilt – it was just a case of when, who and how. With support and co-operation from Greater Wellington, and assistance from ARAC and members of the Tararua Four Wheel Drive Club, the Orange Hut now stands tall in the forest.”

Greater Wellington’s Landcare Committee Chair Cr Chris Laidlaw says: “The groups who have traditionally used the Orange Hut have done a very impressive job in rebuilding it – block by block – in their own time. I hope people will use this great opportunity to check out the new Orange Hut, enjoy one of our most spectacular forest settings, and support a good cause.”

The day begins with a four wheel drive trip covering about 50 kilometres on old logging tracks, crossing several shallow streams in Maungakotukutuku Valley and Akatarawa Forest. All vehicles will meet at 2pm for lunch and the hut’s official opening.

The forest is the only one of Greater Wellington’s regional parks and forests that’s open to motorised recreation. It hosts events ranging from club four wheel drive ‘shiny’ trips to motorcycle endurance events, four wheel drive training, army and police exercises, and the annual Karapoti Classic.

What: Tararua Four Wheel Drive club fundraiser and official opening of the new Orange Hut

When: Sunday 1 July. Sign in at Epiha Street, opposite Paraparaumu railway station, at 8.30am

What to bring: warm clothing, a hot drink and your own four wheel drive vehicle! A light lunch will be provided.
Cost: $50 per vehicle

Bookings: Bookings are essential. For registration forms, contact Graham Wilson (M 027 442 1764, wildevpt@kapiti.co.nz) or Stu Barton (M 027 232 4164, stuart.barton@clear.net.nz).

ENDS

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