Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner - Intermediate

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Thames Over The Top

Thames, Waikato

Submitted by Mal Law

Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

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Open

Grunt Factor: 50 ?

Gnarl Factor: 56 ?

25.0km

Length of run

1100m

Total Ascent

1040m

Total Descent

650m

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, some big hills

Native bush

Run Makeup

10%

50%

40%

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Technical Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +12.9%

Average Downhill Gradient: -12.1%

Trailhead

Estimated Times to Run

5:00

Slow

3:45

Moderate

2:45

Fast

GPX File

Topo Map

3D Satellite

Guide

The trailhead is clearly signposted off the high point of Waitotahi Road. The first km or two are a gentle uphill on easy single track, but then it gradually becomes more rooty and technical.
5-6k in you'll reach the junction with the Karaka Track, head straight on towards Crosbies Hut.

The next junction is some 4k on. Turn right following the sign for Kauaerangi Valley Road. The trail undulates on a ridgeline for 2.5 km before a short climb to Orange Peel Corner. Continue straight following the sign for Kauaerangi Valley Road. The trail starts dropping, gently at first and then steeply for 2.5 km to another junction.

The track to Booms Flat is now closed so follow the markers to the right which takes you to Whangaiterenga Campsite. You continue dropping until reaching Whangaiterenga Stream. Cross over and climb steeply up to the spurline and down the otherside to Waikato Stream which you cross twice to reach Whangaiterenga Campsite and Kauaerangi Valley Road.

Beautiful native bush

Transport and parking:

Limited parking, room for just a few cars in a pull-out at side of road. But this is not a busy track so unlikely you'll have much competition for a spot.
Being a point to point run you'll either want a support vehicle or shuttle one car to the finish at Wainora Campsite in the Kaueranga Valley before starting.

Distance from Thames:

2 km

Driving time from Thames:

6 minutes

Dog friendly:

Unknown

Landowner permission required:

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

All junctions are well signposted.

Cellphone Coverage:

Very patchy.

Suggested Gear List:

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

Availability of Water:

There is very little, if any, drinkable water on the route so take everything with you.

Seasonality Issues:

The tracks can be horrendously muddy after heavy rain.

Hazards:

Plenty of roots and ankle-turning terrain. Take care on the more technical sections.

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Trail Reviews

Jason Willis

It’s a good track but much of it is in the trees with only a very few openings to see the big vistas which is a shame. Campsite at the hut is great and really sheltered from the wind.

Jason Willis

March 29, 2021

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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.