The 42 Traverse is an old logging road running across the Tongariro Forest. The Department of Conservation manage the Tongariro Forest with the 42 Traverse as the only route currently allowing vehicle use. For most users it is open all year, but 4WD vehicles are restricted to the summer months from 1st December to 30th April.
As an area that was once logged for native timbers, with the cutting rights of the Egmont Box Company expiring in January 1956 and final logging by Carter Consolidated Logging that ceased in 1978, it is now regenerating and as the bush gets bigger and higher, the task of keeping what is about fortysix kilometres of old road clear of overgrowth, is increasingly difficult. Shaded areas can stay damp and prone to damage by any users. Water on the route must be managed to minimise its volume and velocity to avoid erosion. Invasive weeds are a problem too.
The aim of Friends of 42 Traverse Inc. is to work with the Department of Conservation to help maintain the 42 Traverse to ensure its sustainability as a venue for vehicle based recreation into the future.
For updates about the 42 Traverse please check the 'News' tab.