Date: 14 January 2009
Three Department of Conservation Rangers have spent the last two days battling winds to reroof Syme Hut on Fanthams Peak, Mt Taranaki.
The current Syme Hut was built in 1988 and the original roof had begun to leak and show ice damage says DOC Visitor Assets Programme Manager Dave Rogers. “It lasted a surprisingly long time in the alpine environment – but it was time for a new roof.”
Materials were flown in to the hut by Precision Helicopters, and the rangers worked long hours to remove the old roof and install the new one. Wind at the exposed site made shifting the iron into place difficult - but the trio managed the project in two days. The old roofing material was flown off site.
DOC Rangers Mike Johns and
Neil Sinclair reroofing Syme Hut
At 1966m Syme Hut is the highest hut in Egmont National Park. Classified as a category three backcountry hut, it offers trampers 10 bunks, a toilet, and running water. On a clear day the site offers stunning views across Taranaki to the Central Plateau. The sunsets and sunrises make the steep three hour uphill tramp from Dawson Falls worthwhile.
The hut was named after the late Rod Syme, a climbing identity well known in the alpine community.
Precision Helicopters fly out the old roofing
material, passing the peak of Mt Taranaki
Hut tickets are required for all Department of Conservation Huts in Egmont National Park – tickets for Syme Hut are $5, while most other huts in the Park cost $15. Hut wardens are in many huts in the Park over the summer period.
Contact
Dave Rogers
djrogers@doc.govt.nz
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