Case Study

Mintaro Hut

  • Location
    Fiordland National Park, Milford
  • Architect
    Pynenberg & Collins Architects
  • Structural Engineer
    PTL Structural Consultants
  • Builder
    Department of Conservation
  • Date
    Winter 2020
  • Carbon Sequestered
    5 Tonne

Remote Getaway

Our Challenge
Being in a remote location with adverse weather conditions meant that products needed to be easily lifted to the site by helicopter, and installed quickly.
The new open plan design aimed at creating an inviting space to welcome travellers after long days on foot, often in harsh weather conditions. The structure must withstand the notorious weather conditions of the Milford area, and at the same time exploit the stunning views of the track.
The new hut design was centred around timber elements, good insulation and airflow between rooms.

The Techlam Solution
Techlam’s structural engineers and experienced project team developed a timber portal design to meet the extreme demands of the site and location. These portals were fully prefabricated at Techlam’s manufacturing facility in Levin and shipped direct to the staging zone - ready to be flown to the site. This made it easier for the on-site team to erect the structure quickly and efficiently.
The replacement hut was much-needed due to the previous hut being in an earthquake zone with a high chance of rockfall.
Our team dealt with on-site delays, and increased costs, as well as COVID.
The end result is a far superior structure compared to the old one, it enjoys significantly more sun, creating a warm and safe, inviting space for Milford Track walkers.
Make sure to visit next time you're in the area.

Products Used
01

Glulam Portals

The main structural & visual element in the Hut is Techlam glulam portals. These were fully prefabricated with glued knee connections.

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