The Holdsworth to Mitre Tramp
The route Brian attempted is a legendary “classic” in the Tararua Forest Park, but it is quite demanding. It connects Mt. Holdsworth (1470m) to Mitre (1571m) via the Broken Axe Pinnacles.
- Terrain: This is a high-level traverse. The “pinnacles” involve jagged rock scrambling that requires a steady head for heights.
- The Challenge: While fit “peak baggers” often attempt this as a day-trip, it involves a large elevation gain and loss. The descent from Mitre to Mitre Flats alone is a 1200-meter drop through steep bush.
- Safety: As the cartoon suggests, the Tararua Range is infamous for mist, strong winds, and rapid temperature drops. Brian’s mistake—sacrificing safety for speed—is an all too common pitfall. Trampers and runners should always carry emergency clothing and shelter, first aid, and a PLB – even the fittest and fastest can make a misstep.
The story of Brian’s misadventure
The narrative begins with Brian (real name altered to avoid disapprobation) planning his favourite Coast to Coast training run – from Mt. Holdsworth to Mitre in the Tararua Forest Park– a trip he had done many times before.
In his overconfidence, he deliberately leaves behind his personal locator beacon (PLB), mobile phone, and first aid kit. Despite a disciplined alpine start at daybreak, the notoriously fickle Tararua weather turns on him.
The turning point occurs on the descent from Mitre, the range’s highest peak. Brian trips over a tree stump while running down the track—humorously depicted with a mischievous face—resulting in a serious gash in his leg.
Without a first aid kit, he is forced to use his polypropylene tights as a makeshift bandage. The story ends with Brian limping toward Mitre Flats, hoping for rescue, and then a difficult walk out to the Pines—a situation that could have been far less dire had he carried the emergency gear he is shown discarding in panel one.
Lesson learned.