News

Whakapapa Building Works Update

As you are probably all aware, our Whakapapa lodge has had to undergo significant repair work over this summer due to damage caused by leakages and moisture retention. In some areas, this has meant entire walls have had to be replaced.

The project includes:
Removing every window in the lodge, fit flashings on the bottom and fit exterior surrounds and re-install.
Removing the plastic lining that was between the interior and exterior walls and replace with breathable building paper.
Replacing all rotten framing and plywood where required.
Replacing all rotten exterior cedar cladding and seal with specialty coating.
Gib-stop all replaced internals walls and paint.
Fixing leaks in roof above lounge, around the internal downpipe between lounge and Room A, and in the ceiling of the games room.
Replacing ceiling in the lounge and paint.

We are having other work done at the same time to further improve the weather tightness of the building, reduce condensation and reduce power consumption.

This includes:
Sealing around the kitchen exhaust vent.
Fixing the corner guttering outside the men’s toilet.
Installing a heat exchange air circulation system to reduce condensation.
Fitting a smart energy management system to reduce power consumption, particularly at peak times. This will significantly reduce our power bills.
Fitting stronger struts inside the roof space to supplement existing struts and replace those twisted by the weight of the snow on the roof last season.
Replacing gib-board below the windows in the games room with stronger plywood to minimise wear and tear.

The total cost of this work will be approximately $180,000. Thankfully, due to the good management of previous committees, we have the funds to pay for this work in the bank.
However, as Greg has explained, this fund was originally intended to accumulate over time and eventually pay for the rebuild of the lodges. That is why we have established the building levy for the next three years to reinstate that fund.

We are happy to report that the work is proceeding slightly ahead of schedule and at this stage, slightly under budget. As at the 7th April, all the bunk rooms are completed and ready to use, there are 3 more windows to do in the lounge, interior lining and gib-stopping is proceeding. Work on the roof above the lounge still needs to be done but that is scheduled for the next fine break.
Wayne Russell and I visited the lodge on the 20th May whilst doing the Tongariro Crossing. Take a look at the photos showing Wayne trying to relax in front of the fire with a glass of wine, in the middle of a construction site! There are still tools, equipment and materials everywhere but the lodge should be completely finished in time for the upcoming work party.
Bruce Fowler