On 11 December 1989, NZAC and DOC signed a management agreement after deciding there were mutual benefits in sharing responsibilities for the huts that the New Zealand Alpine Club (NZAC) had built. Since then, the iconic Aspiring Hut has become increasingly popular with walkers, mountain bikers and family groups, with more than 3,000 people overnighting there last summer season. 

“I think the secret of the agreement's success is that it is not a list of things that both sides must do; but I think we both see it as a framework which sets out how we discuss any issues which arise. While there are certainly practical details included, it has been the flexibility to discuss a whole range of principles which has led to its long-term success.  So, when we get issues like increasing usage or rotting wall boards, the discussions haven't immediately focused on who's responsibility these are, but on how we can work together to get the best outcome,” said Lindsay Smith, president of the New Zealand Alpine Club, 

“For me, the greatest success has come from the passion of the people involved.  Whether Alpine Club members or the department staff, everyone I have dealt with has a genuine love for the Matukituki Valley and the mountains which line both sides. That tends to make discussions pretty straightforward — what's important for the long term of the area — comes first. With that as a focus, the practical implications of who is to do what in any situation usually follows quite naturally,” added Smith. 

“The establishment of the agreement broke new ground,” said Mike Tubbs, DOC's Central Otago operations manager. “Managing the huts on behalf of NZAC allows for revenue to be used for the maintenance of the valley's hut network. It is satisfying to see the original vision of the agreement, to ensure that the huts and associated facilities are managed to be used and enjoyed by all, has been upheld,” concluded Tubbs.