By Outdoor Next Editorial standards
On this page
Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -40.87661, 175.43867. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- Not specified in the checked DOC directory
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Tararua Forest Park
- Dog access
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
This track connects Atiwhakatu Valley with the alpine tops near Mt Holsworth. It is a more challenging track than the main track to Mt Holdsworth via Powell Hut.
This DOC directory entry covers East Holdsworth Track in Wellington, within Tararua Forest Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time: Not specified in the checked DOC directory
- DOC grade: Advanced
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
- Predator control for part of Tararua Forest Park; First published on 2 May 2026. Last reviewed on 3 June 2026.
Dog access
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
East Holdsworth Track begins on Atiwhakatu Track. Just after the bridge over Holdsworth Creek, turn off Atiwhakatu Track and onto East Holdsworth Track.
The track climbs steeply, all the way to the ridge between Mt Holdsworth and Mt Jumbo. Here it meets the Mt Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit.
This track is a backcountry tramping track and is maintained to a lower standard than Atiwhakatu Track and the Mt Holdsworth Track. You can expect an unformed, rough track, where you have to clamber up and over tree roots. It is best suited to experienced trampers. Follow the orange markers to stay on the track.
Getting there
This track connects with Atiwhakatu Track and the Mt Holdsworth Jumbo Circuit.
Know before you go
This is a physically demanding track
East Holdsworth Track is very steep and physically demanding. You need good fitness for this track. Plan extra time in case it takes longer than you expect.
Carry plenty of water and wear sturdy footwear with good grip. Walking poles may be helpful.
Mt Holdsworth Track is an easier alternative.
Pack for bad weather
The Tararua Forest Park is well known for wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather.
Always check the weather forecast. Pack warm and waterproof clothing, even if the forecast is good.
Carry emergency equipment including a torch, spare food, a distress beacon and an emergency shelter.
Find a tramping packing list here
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
