Last Updated: 24th Apr 2024

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Tahurangi Traverse

New Plymouth, Taranaki

Submitted by Chris Wheatley

Last Updated: 24th Apr 2024

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Grunt Factor: 16 ?

Gnarl Factor: 39 ?

8.0km

575m

575m

1554m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Loop

Mountainous

Native bush

Open tussock/grasslands

Volcanic

Run Makeup

40%
60%

Farm Road / 4WD Track

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +17.4%

Average Downhill Gradient: -17.4%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

2:00

Slow

1:30

Moderate

1:00

Fast

Start on the Translator Rd. Its a gravel 4WD track that winds its way up the mountain towards the TV translator and Tahurangi Lodge (private hut). Steep gravel track until the 'Puffer' - a very steep concrete track following the final ridge up to the translator. Pass by Tahurangi Lodge heading on the summit track but take the first right hand track onto the 'Round the Mountain' track heading towards Holly Hut, passing through Hongis valley. Follow this track around the mountain descending Jacobs Ladder at the junction with the Holly Hut track. Turn right and head down the track back to North Egmont.

Trail takes you up fairly high on the mountain.

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.

Lots of parking available at the visitors centre but in peak season on good weather days this can become limited.

29 km

30 minutes

No

No

Moderate.

Easy to follow the track but it can be rough in places.

Generally good.

Thermal leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions)

None available

During winter it does snow on the trail or lie in the valleys making it difficult to pass without appropriate mountaineering gear. Some parts of the trail are very exposed.

General mountain alpine environment hazards

Cafe at North Egmont Visitors Centre
North Egmont
Nice spot to warm up before the drive home

Trail Legend

Nicole Michelini

Nicole Michelini

has completed Tahurangi Traverse 5 times in the last year.

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Trail Reviews

The track has changed a bit and the "Jacob's ladder" part is now closed. The track veers off just before it. Signposted so no issues for navigation. Ran it in reverse to give the quads a good workout going down the Puffer.

Magnus Hammarsal

August 5, 2022

Known by family as "jacob's ladder" circuit after the ladder at the junction of Tracks. We ran this in reverse - up the track and down the puffer/translator road. Up includes lots of stairs in the bush which is nice and sheltered and shaded. Once out of the bushline and onto the ridge it's pretty exposed to wind and sun. Underfoot is plenty of volcanic rock which can be slippery at times - watch your feet. Lovely views of the mountain and over the plains.

Kate Southern

January 6, 2020

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