At 1400m, Kime is the highest hut in the Tararua Ranges and one of the most critical during stormy conditions.
The original hut, Kime Memorial Hut, was built in 1930 in memory of one of the first trampers to die of hypothermia, Esmond J Kime, who was caught in a southerly storm while attempting the Southern Crossing in 1922. The current hut, known as ‘The Fridge’ (or ‘The Freezer’ by some) was built in 1978 and is a Tararua Tramping Club owned public hut. With no heating, it is known to get VERY cold in winter, and even in summer.
Getting to the Cache
The best options for picking up the cache can are as part of a daytrip to the Hut and/or Mt Hector or while completing the Southern Crossing.
From Otaki Forks, head up past Field Hut to Table Top which sits at just over 1000m. From here the track ascends first up Dennan and then Hut Mound at about 1400m. Pass the signposted junction to Maungahuka Hut which is up the central ranges, and at the top of Hut Mound is a signpost down to Kime Hut which is a few minutes below the top of the mound.
Whilst it can be pleasant on this track in summer, in winter the area is often covered in snow and ice and proper tramping gear is required.
Sign posted times & distances are approx:
Otaki Forks – Field Hut: 3-4 hrs, 6.5km
Field Hut – Table Top: 45-60 mins, 1.72km
Table Top – Kime Hut: 2 hrs, 3.25km.
The Cache
The cache is a 500ml Sistema with a Logbook, pencil and pencil sharpener. Please replace the cache snuggly and replace rocks covering it to ensure it stays safe.
Note that it is likely to be covered in snow during winter.
Otaki Forks
Otaki Forks is the main western entrance to the Tararua Forest Park and 19km inland from Otaki township. The easiest turn-off from State Highway 1 is at Otaki Gorge Road, just south of the State Highway 1 bridge over the Otaki River. The last 5km of the Otaki Gorge Road is unsealed, narrow and windy. There are several carparks for both day walkers and overnight long-term parking.
Other Notes
- Ensure you are properly prepared.
- The Tararua's are renowned for their changeable weather so bring extra clothing and food.
- There is some limited cellphone coverage across the tops.