T42 Traverse, Manawatu - Wanganui, New Zealand - Trail Running Directory

T42 Traverse

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Last Updated: 11th Sep 2026

Intermediate

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Grunt Factor: 45 ?

Gnarl Factor: 7 ?

37.2km

Length of run

940m

Total Ascent

1450m

Total Descent

820m

Highest point

Driving Time

Driving Distance

Directions to start

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Back country - remote

Point to Point (one way)

Undulating, small hills only

Native bush

Open farmlands

Open tussock/grasslands

Run Makeup

85%

15%

Farm Road / 4WD Track

Easy Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +5.40%

Average Downhill Gradient: -5.90%

Garmin Course

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Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

7:00

Slow

5:00

Moderate

3:30

Fast

GPX File

Topo Map

3D Satellite

Guide

Follow the T42 Traverse signs and the obvious 4x4 track for most of the route through to Whakapapa River bridge. After crossing the bridge follow the road to Owhango.

NB as far as the bridge this follows the route of the 42 Traverse race but the trails used by the event to take competitors up the hill to Owhango are private. Please do not use them and stick to the road instead.

Great views from the track edges for much of the route, as well as distant views of volcanos. Nice stream crossings and stunning river towards end, plus a section of superb old-growth forest near the end.

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.

Transport and parking:

You'll need a car at each end.

Distance from National Park:

20 km

Driving time from National Park:

18 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Navigation Rating:

Moderate.

Navigation Tips:

Just keep an eye on the many 4WD junctions along the route!

Cellphone Coverage:

Patchy.

Suggested Gear List:

Waterproof leggings, 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 blanket, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

Plenty of nice clear stream crossings after the first 15km.

Seasonality Issues:

VERY cold and potential icy in winter - go prepared!

Hazards:

Slippy underfoot at times, with ruts from 4WD vehicles. Watch out for vehicles during summer season. Several stream crossings that may be deeper after heavy rain (only ankle/calf-deep otherwise)

Use your judgement:

The information provided is a guide only. Conditions, access and hazards can change, so use your own judgement and check current local information before heading out. Make sure the route or location is suitable for your experience, fitness and equipment, and check any access restrictions or permissions that may apply.

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Fastest Known Times (FKTs)

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Trail Reviews

Mike Richardson

It was a very wet and slippery day when I did this run, however it was still really enjoyable and the scenery was incredible.
Lots of 4x4 and motorbike’s on the tracks, everyone was really friendly.
Tough finish

Mike Richardson

February 6, 2022

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Overlapping Trails

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.