Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Tawhai Loop
Submitted by Joe Benbow
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 11 ?
Gnarl Factor: 36 ?
7.7km
350m
350m
380m
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Submitted by Joe Benbow
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 11 ?
Gnarl Factor: 36 ?
7.7km
350m
350m
380m
Urban fringe
Loop
Undulating, some big hills
Dog Friendly
Native bush
Sealed Road
Farm Road / 4WD Track
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +12.4%
Average Downhill Gradient: -13.2%
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Not suitable
Slow
1:30
Moderate
0:50
Fast
If you're starting at the Horoeka St entrance, start by heading south east along the road, then turn left onto Tawhai St and join the track entrance at the top of the road. (Alternatively, you can park and start here, and do the road section last).
Follow the track up along the side of the stream and soon it will head steeply uphill. Good luck running up here, unless you're a mountain goat! You will more likely be hauling yourself up using tree trunks for leverage. There is a bench 2/3 of the way up with a nice lookout if you need a rest.
Eventually you will emerge at the top of the hill on a 4WD track. Turn left and enjoy the easy downhill run for about 2.3k, when you will come to a signpost pointing you left. Follow this single track down through the native bush, and at the next signpost, turn right for the last 1km past the fairy village and back out to where you started.
The reserve has mature areas of kahikatea bush within which nestle a wide range of native New Zealand species. The Horoeka loop at the end of the run also contains a fairy village, which will keep your little ones entertained.
Parking is available on Horoeka St and Tawhai St
7 km
9 minutes
Yes
No
Easy.
Generally good.
Short-sleeved thermal top, Windproof jacket, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map
None. Take what you need
Track can be slippery in places
The uphill section is VERY steep so ensure you have suitable footwear.
Dogs should be kept under control at all times as there is possum baiting in the area.
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Tawhai Loop
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Ran this in the described direction this time and it was even better! The steep uphill was fun and there were plenty of small trees to use as hand holds.
January 13, 2021
Great find thanks Joe! I did this in reverse which meant a lovely easy uphill followed by a very steep descent holding tree to tree, then a very pleasant jog through the bush again.
August 8, 2020
The elevation profile says it all. Ridiculously tough uphill but lovely run back down again. Another hidden gem in the burbs.
August 6, 2020
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