Our History
The Otaihape Alpine Club was formed by a group of keen Taihape alpine climbers & skiers in 1937. There were few facilities at this time the the hut was one of the first built on Mt Ruapehu.
The site was chosen because of its failry sheltered position and the awesome view of Ngauruhoe & Mt Taranaki in the distant west. It was built before Iwikau village existed and there were no lifts. Members parked their cars at Salt Flat and walked up to the hut. They even made their own skis.
By 1972 the membership had grown and and a new lodge was built (pictured below).
The lodge was completed in 1974 and has 20 bunks.
