Wellington Regional Trails

Spend the night at Powell Hut or continue on to the Mount Holdsworth summit on this one or two-day adventure in the Tararua Range.

Walking time

3 hrs one way to Powell or 4 hrs to Mt Holdsworth

Length

9.2km

Uses

Walking/Running, Tramping/Hiking

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Intermediate: Easier tramping track

Profile

880m to Powell Hut climb

1456m highest point

Dogs

Yes (on lead)
The view of mountain ranges from a wooden deck.

The view from Powell Hut on Mount Holdsworth, looking east over Wairarapa.

About the trail

This popular intermediate-level trail is an ideal trip for those new to exploring the Tararua Range. 

Roadend to Powell Hut

The trail follows the Gentle Annie Track to Mountain House Shelter. From there, you’ll climb through dense beech forest to Powell Hut. Most walkers choose to spend the night here before returning along the same route. The return journey to Powell Hut takes 5 to 6 hours to complete.

Just below the hut, a rocky outcrop has excellent views of High Ridge and Totara Flats below in the Waiohine Valley.

Powell Hut to Mount Holdsworth summit

From Powell Hut you can walk a bit further to the Mount Holdsworth summit (1,470 metres). The return trip to the summit can be completed in 7 to 8 hours.

This section of trail is also part of the popular Jumbo Circuit. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can continue to Jumbo Circuit at the summit.

Powell Hutt

  • Powell Hutt is a standard Department of Conservation (DOC) hut with, heating, non-treated water, and a long-drop toilet.  Powell Hutt — DOC
  • Bookings are required all year. Book a pass before you go.

Getting there

  • The trail can be accessed from Gentle Annie Track in Tararua Forest Park.
  • To get to the trailhead, turn off State Highway 2 onto Norfolk Road (which turns into Mount Holdsworth Road) and follow the signs to Tararua Forest Park.
  • Parking is available at the entrance to the Tararua Forest Park.
  • There are regular train services from Wellington to Masterton, but public transport is not available from Masterton to Tararua Forest Park.

Know before you go

  • Get ready using Plan My Walk by the NZ Mountain Safety Council for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list. Get an up-to-date weather report from the MetService website before setting off.
  • Check the track status on the Department of Conservation website.
  • Toilets, water and picnic facilities are available at Holdsworth Lodge and the entrance to Tararua Forest Park.
  • Take warm waterproof clothing, sunscreen, food and water. Durable footwear or strong boots are essential.
  • The route to the summit of Mount Holdsworth is exposed in places.
  • Plan your route before you leave and let someone know where you’re going.
  • Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
  • If you’re planning to stay at Powell Hut, make sure you book ahead during the busy summer season (1 October to 30 April).

Looking for more?

The view of mountain ranges from a wooden deck.

Mount Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit

The multi-day circuit around Mount Holdsworth gives you the opportunity to explore the tops of the Tararua Range. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Wairarapa region and Wellington.

Two people walk along Bus Barn Track in East Harbour Regional Park during golden hour.

Bus Barn Track

East Harbour Regional ParkAn easy trail through mature beech forest and stunning kahikatea trees.

The people walk along a wide gravel path passing the entrance sign to East Harbour Regional Park.

Kererū Track

East Harbour Regional ParkSee native kererū and orchids while enjoying views over Wellington from the hills above Days Bay.

Two people walking along a swing bridge between two hillsides on the Escarpment track above the Kāpiti Coast.

Escarpment Track

Take in spectacular views of Kapiti Island from high above the Kāpiti Coastline.

A mountain biker sits at the end of a hill ridge on the Puketiro Loop track looking out towards the Pāuatahanui Inlet.

Puketiro Loop

Battle Hill Farm Forest ParkClimb through dense pine plantations and take in views over Pāuatahanui on this intermediate trail suitable for walkers, bikers, and horse riders.

A small stream cuts through green grass and trees on the Restoration trail at Battle Hill Farm.

Restoration Trail

Battle Hill Farm Forest ParkEnjoy a short leisurely bike ride or stroll through farmland, wetlands, and an old airstrip.

Rolling grassy hills with groups of trees scattered throughout under a blue sky with big white fluffy clouds.

Battle Hill Summit Loop

Battle Hill Farm Forest ParkClimb to the summit of Battle Hill for great views over the Horokiwi Valley and towards Pāuatahanui Inlet.

Two bikers going through a dark tunnel on the Rail Trail Section on the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

Rail Trail section

Remutaka Cycle TrailTake an invigorating ride tracing an historic railway line through stunning native bush.

2 bikers cycling along the track next to the road, on the Western lake Road Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

Western Lake Road section

Remutaka Cycle TrailA gentle countryside ride along the shores of Lake Wairarapa, ending at the wild South Coast.

Two cyclists on the beach in Palliser Bay, at the entrance to the Wild Coast Section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.

Wild Coast Trail section

Remutaka Cycle TrailThe final and most scenic section includes a windswept ride along a remote and rugged coastline.