Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Archer Track

Havelock, Marlborough

Submitted by Kerensa Leadbetter

Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner - Intermediate

Save Trail Save

I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 20 ?

Gnarl Factor: 35 ?

18.0km

290m

290m

60m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Out and Back

Undulating, small hills only

Dog Friendly

Native bush

Coastal

Run Makeup

60%
40%

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +14.9%

Average Downhill Gradient: -14.9%

Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

3:00

Slow

2:15

Moderate

1:30

Fast

Dogs allowed on lead and with Sounds Dog Permit

Easy to find and follow (no alternative or intersecting routes). DOC track - dogs prohibited. Some mountain bikers use the track so be aware, however it is generally a very quiet route with a few walkers and runners. The track is under native trees and pines, except the first (&last) 1.5kms so is pretty shaded but temperatures can soar in the summer - take plenty of water.

There is a section midway which is tidal (Deep Bay) and so you have a choice of wading through a creek or climbing around it if the tide is in. If it's out you will stay dry! Elaine Bay - Deep Bay is 4.5kms of easy single track, followed by 4.5km of moderate single track with lots of tree roots and small rocks through to Penzance Bay where there is a picnic area, jetty, beach and toilets. There are lots of gorgeous, elevated views of the Marlborough Sounds throughout the run. Then turn around and run back!

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 free, accessible parking. No public transport available

69 km

78 minutes

Yes

No

Easy.

This is a well signposted trail

Non-existent.

Waterproof leggings, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Map

Water available at DOC toilets in Penzance Bay but needs to be treated/ filtered.

Very muddy after heavy rain.Take plenty of water. Tidal in one part.

Brick Oven, Rai Valley - coffee & breakfast. Not Licensed though so you may want to take a chilly bin with your own beer!
State Highway 6, Rai Valley, Marlborough

Trail Legend

Lorna Hill

Lorna Hill

has completed Archer Track once in the last year.

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Trail Reviews

Easy run to get your legs turning over (if you want). Some nice views through the trees and a couple of swim spots for hot days. Definitely two distinctive halves - the second from Deep Bay to Penzance being through beech forest and more rooty underfoot.

Elly Arnst

January 14, 2021

Some lovely views balanced by a trail that becomes a bit same-ish. First half out is pretty average on what is basically a vehicle access tra k to the guy. Once past the hut (4.5km) however the trail is real trail to the end and much better to run. A nice day and run but nothing to rave about.

Mike Tennent

January 9, 2019

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