Tutuwai Hut loop via Mt Reeves (newbie friendly)

Join me on a loop overnighting at Tutuwai Hut, a 20 bunk serviced hut, passing by historic Cone Hut and returning via less travelled routes and a stream crossing.

What we'll do:
Leaving Wellington Station (Platform 9) 8am on Sat, we'll arrive at Waiohine carpark (Greytown) at 10am and walk to Cone Hut (2hrs) and then south along the river to Tutuwai (2.5hrs - 4.5hr walking day). Snacks (bring something to share), dinner (BYO), cards, snoring (bring earplugs), good times to be had.

On Sunday we'll leave via the Mt Reeve track directly behind the hut, climbing 600metres. Some views of the Wairarapa and the hopefully snow-capped higher ranges, then follow the old Coal Stream track (rough marking but have faith) down to Coal Stream. A wet crossing of the creek and then we're back at the car (4.5hrs).

Regular tramping gear required. It's COLD so bring warm stuff.

Need: moderate fitness, proper gear (winter-y) and food
Don't need: to be an experienced tramper. I can share what I know if you're interested.

Note: your safety is your responsibility, including (not limited to) emergency contacts, correct gear and preparation. If you'd like to discuss what you might need, please get in touch.

You'll need a service hut ticket for Tutuwai hut (or 3 unserviced):
https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-stay/stay-in-a-hut/booking-and-paying/

Here's the hut
https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/wellington-kapiti/places/tararua-forest-park/things-to-do/huts/tutuwai-hut/

Topo map reference
https://www.topomap.co.nz/NZTopoMap?v=2&ll=-41.003512,175.357504&z=14

Prior trip writeup
https://lawrenceblair.com/tramp/tramping-mt-reeves-via-cone-hut-tutuwai

Messaging: you must have Meetup messaging working, even if just for organisers. I will message the week before and remove any non-responders. These are small trips and it's sad when keen people miss out because of tyre kickers.

Wet weather options: if it's hosing down we won't cross Coal Stream, so either do the loop in reverse or do an in-out. TBD if required.