Last Updated: 24th Sep 2023

Very Experienced

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I've done it Done

Tarn S-K

Eketahuna, Manawatu - Wanganui

Submitted by Seanoa Isaac

Last Updated: 24th Sep 2023

Very Experienced

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I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 184 ?

Gnarl Factor: 68 ?

80.0km

5400m

5300m

1500m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Back country - remote

Point to Point (one way)

Very hilly

Native bush

Open ridges/tops

Run Makeup

20%
30%
10%
40%

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Technical Single Track

Untracked / Route only

Average Uphill Gradient: +12.4%

Average Downhill Gradient: -10.9%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

Not suitable

Slow

24:00

Moderate

16:00

Fast

A recce of the northern end or Dundas Ridge is advised as well as Tarn Ridge itself. You will need to be capable with map and compass if visibility is poor as the first half is more of a route than a track until Jumbo. In clear weather navigation is fairly straightforward. Recommend to reach out to others who have done the route. Check out Wellington Big Sunday Run Group on Facebook.

FOR THE EXPERIENCED MOUNTAIN RUNNER ONLY: there are long unmarked sections and you really need to be self-sufficient on this run as there are limited bail out options once you're on the tops, until about the halfway mark. The weather can be gnarly, so choose your day wisely! 

The route covers 8 x 1500m peaks plus a few others like Mt. Holdsworth. You also pass a few graves, Brockett Rocks, the Waiohine Pinnacles and Broken Axe Pinnacles.

Parking isn't a problem, although can get busy on nice weather weekends.

19 km

25 minutes

Unknown

No

Extreme.

Most of the difficult nav is early in the journey especially if you start in the dark. A recce is advised.
Navigation over Cone Saddle in particular can be a problem as this section will often be completed in the dark.

Generally good.

Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Compass, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Gaiters.

Water is usually fine at the huts but pays to check if its been very dry. There are long sections between huts. There are also tarns which are OK if with aquatabs/ filter but also pays to check local knowledge on their condition. You will need to plan your water refills for this.
Water can be a problem after long dry spells, so aim to carry at least 2L at a time during summer.

Tararua tops can be brutal any time of year and not to be underestimated. Good weather is almost certainly desired as the first half of the route is exposed tops.

Some sidling and clambering around Waiohine Pinnacles, Girdlestone, North King and Broken Axe Pinnacles is required. Recommend that you are comfortable in this terrain.

DIY
Kaitoke carpark
Purely up to how you organise support throughout or at the end as you'll be poked and you finish in a dusty car park 20min drive from anything

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Trail Reviews

Katie and I had a challenging day in tough conditions, but would totally do it again as I know the views are amazing, and I'm a bit of a sucker for punishment!

Elly Arnst

April 9, 2021

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