After several weekends of hard labour keen outdoorsmen, Cory, Stu and Ben have completed the restoration of the Downs Hut. Gone are the sacking bunks and leaky roof – instead occupants can now enjoy some “rustic luxury.” The character of over a hundred years of use, still remains but the hut is now sturdy and weatherproof to face the next century.
Station huts are a unique feature in New Zealand’s pastoral history. Until recently many huts were left to fall into disrepair. However their appeal has had a resurgence – the charm of a simple corrugated iron haven in the middle of nowhere is a wonderful contrast to modern urban living.