These days, school children are giving the traditional hut much more thought.
Pupils from around Otago have been building EcoHuts that aid in natural growth, convert and distribute natural energy, nourish the soil and other creatures, provide natural warmth inside from harsh winters and express the culture of Otago's local community.
The constructions are part of the Otago Primary Enviroschools EcoHut Challenge.
During the past week, the participating schools have been peer-reviewing each other and the regional voting and awards took place during a hui at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary yesterday.
Otago Enviroschools regional co-ordinator Jenny Neilson said the huts were all very different from each other, with some using recycled materials and others using natural materials.
One EcoHut, built by Port Chalmers School, used straw bales covered in clay.
"The presentations were absolutely terrific and all were considered winners in particular aspects of the challenge," she said.
