Eastern Hutt River Alpha Hut loop, 2 nights three days

We start at the Kaitoke Camp Waterworks road. Tramp into the Eastern Hutt catchment and up the river to or near the hut for the night. 10 easy kms. Start midday for a relaxing walk in. The hut has been recently done up with 6 comfortable looking bunks. The sign says emergency use only. Use your initiative into how you interpret this. Bring tents or bivy bags. Sunday is the big day. Some gear may be left at the hut as this is planned to be a big day walk. Start early to climb the ridge behind the hut. 1000m straight up 4km to eventually link up to the top of Quoin Ridge. It appears to be well used so there may be some markers, but it is off track and will be hard yacker. Reportedly no leather wood, but I have not tramped this ridge before. I will be very slow but steady. The group needs to stick together so everyone stays with the slowest person. We summit Alpha, turn right on the Southern Crossing track to Alpha Hut and a late lunch. Then head down the track to Hell's Gate. Push through the top supple jack and descend into the head waters of the Eastern Hutt river. From there it should be easy going back to the hut for our second night. Monday is a straight forward return to the car and out at midday. Fair weather only, we postpone if the Hutt River is up.
For experienced well equipped trampers only. Do your own research, know where we are going, take responsibility for your own safety.