Hi all - I was part of a Wellington Ski & Outdoor Club (WSOC) working bee to Joe Slatter Hut nr Mt Rufus a few weekends ago. The club, which is based at Mt Field and has nothing to do with Mt Wellington

, is owner/caretaker of the hut, and pays a licence fee to Parks. But the hut is open to all users.
It was my first time there, and it was fascinating to hear some of the hut's story. For anyone interested, it IS habitable, and has room for a dozen or more. But the heater doesn't work (don't even think about it!) and there might be the odd leak. We painted it, did some work on the foundations, and tinkered with a few other bits & pieces.
If you do stay there, donations to the WSOC are appreciated. It'd be great to see it in good, fully functioning shape. Inspired by the visit, I've written more about the hut's history here
http://www.naturescribe.com/2013/05/not-so-grand-designs.htmlcheers
Peter