Trig Track
Kapiti Island Nature Reserve trailsA challenging and steep climb to Tūteremoana, the highest point on Kapiti Island.
1420m climb
-1160m descent
1526m highest point
The Tararua Southern Crossing is one of the four classic tramps of the Tararua Range. The multi-day hike traverses the alpine ridges from Ōtaki Forks to Kaitoke. It is recommended for advanced trampers with good navigation and map reading skills. The weather conditions can often be poor and change quickly.
The alpine tops section (Table Top to Mount Alpha) offers spectacular views south of Wellington Harbour, the Marlborough Sounds and the Kaikōura Mountains.
Originally used as a transport route from Ōtaki Forks to the Wairarapa Plains, the trail was made popular during the 1920s and 30s by local tramping clubs. If you're an expert tramper with appropriate equipment, a winter crossing along snow-capped ridgelines is one of the best experiences you'll find in Tararua Forest Park.
You can start and finish the trail at either end, and car parking is available.
From State Highway 1, turn off onto Ōtaki Gorge Road. The trail starts at the end of the road.
From State Highway 2, turn onto Marchant Road (signposted at the western side of Remutaka Hill) at the YMCA Camp Kaitoke turn-off. Near the end of Marchant Road, turn right onto Kiwi Ranch Road and continue for 500m until you reach the car park.
Train services connect Wellington to Kāpiti and Upper Hutt, and timetables are available from Metlink. There is no public transport to the trailhead.
RoadyNZ
Kapiti Island Nature Reserve trailsA challenging and steep climb to Tūteremoana, the highest point on Kapiti Island.
A significant and classic section of the Southern Crossing in the Tararua Range, with snow-peaked mountain tops and incredible sunset views.
This track is one of the tougher sections of Te Araroa trail linking Ōtaki Forks to Mangaone South Road.
A three day hike through the Tararua Range, from Holdsworth to Kaitoke.
Clamber high above the Mākara Beach cliffs and discover exhilarating views, WWII gun emplacements, breathtaking beachfront, and historic pā sites.
Take in spectacular views of Kapiti Island from high above the Kāpiti Coastline.
Hemi Matenga Scenic ReserveLocated in Hemi Matenga Scenic Reserve, the Te Au track climbs to 521m and offers panoramic views of the Waikanae Estuary and Kapiti Island.
Enjoy a versatile hike through grasslands, bush and tussock to the oldest surviving recreational hut in the Tararua Range.
Whareroa Farm Recreation ReserveClimb up Ti Kouka valley, past tī kōuka (cabbage) trees to the Rocks Lookout — the highest point of Whareroa Farm.
East Harbour Regional ParkNavigate steep steps and a zigzag trail to meet up with Main Ridge Track.