Camp Rutherford

Largely due to the foresight of the then Auckland Provincial Commissioner, Mrs. Audrey Rutherford, a ten acre block of coastal land was purchased in 1964.

A garage was erected on the top site and a six foot wide track was cut to give access to the Rangitoto Field. In 1969 an open air chapel was built in the bush area. A second garage was erected on the top site in 1976 and was named Lee Lodge after Fae Lee who was the first Guider in charge of the property. Over the years both garages have been lined and extended – the original garage becoming the kitchen, dining and activity area, and Lee Lodge now sleeps twenty-two.

More recently a third garage has also been installed and extended, providing storage for tents and equipment and a covered activity area. There is also a permanent fire place and shelter. Rangitoto Field has a small equipment shed, a fire place and shelter so is ideal for basic camping.

About 1987 when Camp Rutherford became part of the new Manukau Region two paths were cut through the bush area. These paths are now called the Ranger Valley Path and the Pohutukawa Trail. For many years the rangers removed privet and planted native trees near the Ranger Valley. This project developed into large working bees of Guiding people, families and friends, and we now have native trees around our boundaries and in the bush.

In 2002 a path/boardwalk was built from the Rangitoto Field through our wetland to the beach.