Hike to the Impact100 Hut

Members of Impact100 Whakatipu and Southern Lakes Sanctuary recently took part in a memorable hike up the Rees Valley, combining community connection, conservation, and collective giving in one of the region’s most iconic landscapes.
The group made their way to the Impact100 Hut, a newly established hut which will be used by Southern Lakes Sanctuary staff to monitor the newly established takahe population and undertake predator control work.
Impact100 Whakatipu brings together women who each contribute $1,000 annually, collectively awarding large-scale grants to projects that strengthen the local community and environment.
In 2024, Southern Lakes Sanctuary was one of the grant recipients, using the funds to build the Impact100 trapline, and repurpose the old Livingston Hut which had been languishing in a DOC base in Wanaka.
“This hike was about much more than reaching a destination,” said Euni Borrie one of the founding Impact100 Whakatipu supporters, “It was about deepening our connection to place, seeing first-hand what collective giving can achieve, and being reminded why conservation and community care matter so much in our region.”
One the way back to Muddy Creek carpark, 2 families of takahe were spotted - Mum, Dad and big fluffy black chick each – drinking in one of the tributary creeks.
The Rees Valley, with its braided rivers, alpine views and rich biodiversity, provided a amazing backdrop for the experience. Seeing the Impact100 Hut and the takahē reinforced a shared commitment to ensuring these places are protected and accessible for future generations.
Impact100 Whakatipu continues to support initiatives that respond to local needs while fostering a strong culture of generosity, collaboration and stewardship across the region.