A historic hut built in 1884 & the oldest hut in the Ruahine's. Named after James Ellis who in 1904 was accused of shooting his former boss Leonard Collinson after Collinson fired him for killing a red deer without permission. Ellis evaded authorities for 10 months, was captured (at the hut), found guilty & hanged. Pre 1904 the hut was called Whitnell’s Hut, after hunter/ shepherd Bill Whitnell who lived there. Located just off Yeomans Track on Ellis Road, just inside the Gwavas Forest. Edit Hut
It's recently had a new iron roof put on. For it's age it is a very comfortable and well maintained hut. There has obviously been a lot of restoration work done to keep it up to such a high standard. Thanks to all those who have put such time and effort in.