Last Updated: 12th Jun 2024
QCT - Anakiwa to Te Mahia
Submitted by James Crockett
Last Updated: 12th Jun 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 28 ?
Gnarl Factor: 44 ?
23.0km
510m
510m
223m
Last Updated: 12th Jun 2024
Submitted by James Crockett
Last Updated: 12th Jun 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 28 ?
Gnarl Factor: 44 ?
23.0km
510m
510m
223m
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Undulating, some big hills
Native bush
Beach
Coastal
Gravel Road
Farm Road / 4WD Track
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +11.8%
Average Downhill Gradient: -12.0%
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3:30
Slow
2:30
Moderate
1:45
Fast
This run takes you along part of the iconic Queen Charlotte Track in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. It begins at the Anakiwa end, a short drive from either Picton or Havelock.
Running through serene native bush, the first 3km is relatively light undulation before dropping down to Davies Bay where camping and swimming is an option.
From here it gets a bit more interesting as the next 3.5km is a steady gradual climb of about 185m and offers some of the best views along the trail, overlooking the Sounds.
The trail then gradually descends (with a few more short sharp climbs) until you reach the turn around point at Onahau Road.
From here you have access to Te Mahia, Mistletoe Bay or Waterfall Bay. All great spots for a mid-run snack/swim, just a short walk from the road with directions well signed.
To get back to Anakiwa, (this is an out and back) run in reverse, you have gradual undulating climb up to the highest point again. Then followed by a steady descent back in to Davies Bay and the final few smaller hills back to Anakiwa.
I haven't been too descriptive with this write up as it would not do the scenery justice, quite simply its a stunning trail to run and I recommend bringing a camera!
Anakiwa is the home of Outward Bound. A well known outdoor education provider specialising in multi-day courses that push peoples boundaries and take them out of their comfort zones.
If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.
Plenty of parking at the entrance and along the road in if required. Toilets and free cold showers here as well.
31 km
35 minutes
No
No
Easy.
Generally good.
Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Windproof jacket, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map
Take plenty of water with you! There are showers and toilets at the car park.
Track can be muddy/slippery after heavy rains.
Some places are quite technical, have eaten dirt quite often having kicked a decent rock/tree root.
The Slip Inn
Havelock Marina, Havelock 7100
https://www.slipinn.co.nz/
Great spot for a beer, food or to watch/laugh at people trying to reverse their boats down the ramp (which this place overlooks)
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and QCT - Anakiwa to Te Mahia
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Very runnable! Gorgeous views especially on a still morning. Great run for a beginner looking to branch out into something a bit bigger/longer.
November 18, 2023
We caught the boat to Ships Cove, then ran over 3 days. One night at Punga Cove (must go back there!), then Te Mahia. My mad running mate also ran the Picton Link trail to get the car for us, while we swam (quick dip) and drank coffees in Momorangi. Excellent fun trail!
January 7, 2020
Really enjoyable run along this part of the QCT. Beautiful views along Grove Arm. Im definately a novice trail runner, but thankfully was aware enough that the novice time provided as 2.5hours was well beyond my capabilities!!! I descended into and back out of Mistletoe Bay for a total of 25kms.
December 4, 2018
These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
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