Tribute To the Back Country Hut

There’s a billy on the open fire Piles of beech wood by the door Smokey stains adorn the iron roof Wax drips on bench and floor. Old cobwebs drape the windows Dog-eared cards upon a shelf The half a dozen Readers Digests Will fill the evening by yourself. Outside the rain is pouring down As you brew your cup of tea A candle betrays a subtle draft But you're warm and quite comfy. Bunks line against a single wall You see where mice have chewed Checking socks upon the mantelpiece Again enjoying the pleasing mood. As you sign within the guestbook A chance to read the travellers tales Of epic journeys, in stunning land Huge success and classic fails. Lives saved by simple shelter To casual stops along the track Unplanned stays for many a day Seen as palace, a villa, and shack. And to you this place is special It’s a place you just adore. And though you’ve never visited, You know you've been in here before. *The NZ Department of Conservation manages a network of over 950 huts of all shapes and sizes. They provide unique places to stay, refuge from bad weather, or rest and recover while experiencing the great outdoors.