Popular track off-limits to vehicles

Four-wheel drive vehicles cause damage to the T42 in winter conditions. Photo: DOC

The Department of Conservation is reminding four-wheel drive owners that the 42 Traverse is off-limits over winter to protect the track.

The 42 Traverse, or T42, is a popular multi-use track and off-roading destination in the Tongariro Forest Conservation Area in the Central North Island.

The area also provides habitat for species like kiwi and whio.

Department of Conservation Team Lead Tongariro Michael Christie says the winter closure to four-wheel drives protects the track and provides access for critical conservation work.

“Winter off-roading causes heavy track damage, affecting our work and impacting the track experience for other users.

“It’s also a safety issue - large vehicles can increase the risk of slips from sodden soils.”

Four-wheel drives are not permitted on the track between May 1 and November 30.

“To be clear, we have to focus our efforts and funding where it matters most, and we cannot afford to continue fixing a road purely so a few can tear it up again,” Michael says.

The 42 Traverse extends through native forest, offering views back to Tongariro National Park.

It is used by trampers, hunters and mountain bikers.

The 42 Traverse will reopen to four-wheel drive vehicles from December 1.