Pouākai Hut
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION - TARANAKI
The Pouākai Hut replacement was part of the Department of Conservation Taranaki Crossing is a project within Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki. The hut was co-designed with hapū Ngāti Tairi and Ngā Mahanga to replace the much-loved 1980s alpine shelter in Egmont National Park Pouākai circuit. The project sought to create a resilient, low-impact building that would endure the harsh environment of an extreme wind zone while providing shelter for both day visitors and overnight trampers.
The design was carried out in partnership with local hapū, ensuring cultural values, narratives, and the identity of the place were embedded in the final form. This collaborative approach reinforced the importance of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and a sense of belonging for visitors.
