“Can you imagine the dedication?” our guide asked, gesturing towards the Boar Inn. “This cozy hut wasn’t always concrete and comfort.”
Nestled along the Crōngorongo River, the Boar Inn is a testament to the enduring spirit of outdoor enthusiasts. Its story, woven with strands of scientific curiosity and sheer hard work, paints a vivid picture of its evolution.
The original Boar Inn, a humble structure, housed Brian Hildreth in the late 1920s. A pioneer in possum research, Brian’s work here marked the beginning of understanding these creatures in New Zealand. Imagine him, surrounded by formaldehyde bottles and equipment, painstakingly unraveling the mysteries of possum life.
By the mid-1950s, the old hut was nearing its end. A new caretaker, Jim Winchester, took on the Herculean task of rebuilding. He meticulously prepared the damp site, hauling boulders from the river to create a stable foundation. Weekend after weekend, he mixed concrete and filled molds, crafting 112 blocks that would form the base of the new Boar Inn.
The framework, a collaboration with a local joiner, was transported on a World War II 4X4 quad, a testament to the rugged terrain. Easter of 1967 saw the new Boar Inn rise, a testament to Jim’s vision.
Today, the Boar Inn stands as a tribute to those who dared to explore and study the wild beauty of the Remutaka Forest Park. The next time you’re here, close your eyes and listen. The river whispers stories of their legacy.