New visa regulations allow you to work remotely from New Zealand for your overseas employer or client for up to 90 days. To apply, visit Immigration New Zealand.

3-6 Hrs 46 km

Highlights

  • Eerie volcanic scenery
  • Long, fun downhills
  • Babbling rivers & native bush

Proximity

Cross Country/Enduro

Grade 3 | Intermediate

A New Zealand classic from way back, this predominantly downhill wilderness ride serves up spectacular volcanic scenery and beautiful native bush.

A landslide at the western entrance of the 42 Traverse track has narrowed this section of the track. For more information, visit the Department of Conservation(opens in new window) website.

Riding the trail

In the days before New Zealand’s mountain biking explosion, the 42 Traverse was arguably the country’s premier mountain biking ride. The fact that it still rates as one of the best is testament to its thrilling downhill runs and the beauty of the scenery surrounding it. If you're mountain biking in Taupō or Ruapehu regions, this is a trail not to be missed!

Named after the old State Forest 42 it traverses, this is very much a wilderness ride. It starts on the fringe of Tongariro National Park and quickly dips down into regenerating native forest rich with birdlife, following a series of old logging roads.

Plan your mountain biking holiday

tnz-tours

Key Mountain Biking Tours Operators

Enjoy the freedom of riding without the hassle of logistics by taking a guided or self-guided mountain bike tour.

tnz-articles

New Zealand Mountain Biking Tips & FAQs

Few countries in the world serve up such diverse riding – from urban forest trails to rugged, remote mountaintop tracks. Plan to stay safe and savour them.

tnz-information

New Zealand Travel Guide

Planning a biking holiday to New Zealand? Read our practical travel advice before you depart.

Explore what’s near the 42 Traverse trail

Find things to do

Find places to stay

Find transport

Other mountain biking rides nearby

Calculate the driving distances between two places in New Zealand

You may also be interested in