Funny story: One summer afternoon, I decided to take Olive (the dog) on a mission to find Thornhills Hut on the Kapakapanui Track. I’d hiked Kapakapanui a few times before, completely unaware that I was walking right past a secret hut. It had been about three years since my last trip, so I did a quick online search, found a blog post that seemed promising, and figured I had the location dialed. Turns out, I was very wrong.
When I got home, disappointed, I jumped straight online and did a little more research found a better blog, and filed I spent 45 minutes wandering around above the 920m contour line, traipsing through the bush with no luck. Defeated, I headed home, did a little more research, and quickly realized I had been following the wrong guide. After finding a more reliable blog, I filed the mission under next fine day, this is happening.
The following weekend, I roped in my daughter Eliza, wrangled Olive into the car, and hightailed it back to the Kapakapanui Track—this time armed with proper intel. The trick? Look for a branch hanging over the track with a marker on it. This is the spot. Turn left, and almost immediately, you’ll find yourself on a well-defined trail. Less than three minutes later, boom—you’re standing outside Thornhills Hut.
The hike up to 900m is steep, but it’s worth it. Massive, beautiful trees punctuate the climb, and there are some stunning views back out toward Kapiti Island.
A lot of people say they wouldn’t sleep in Thornhills Hut, but honestly, I’d be happy to. Someone recently added a new tarp roof, and it’s tidy, mostly watertight, and even has a small water tank (though I’d still bring my own). Sure, you might have a few critters for company, but with a dry roof and a killer view, I’d say it’s worth it!
