John McDonald Road runs off SH47 between National Park and Turangi and is just 1500 meters or so East of the southern end of the 42nd Traverse. Once you turn off SH47 follow the signs for Okupata Caves track through a freshly planted forestry block, the 12km track has some ruts that can catch you out if you’re not paying attention. At the end of the road is a large free campsite with toilets that would be great for motorcycle camping.
DOC campsite info: http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-stay/conservation-campsites-by-region/central-north-island/ruapehu-area/pokaka-mill/
Contributed by: @cullum_campbell-morrison
Track type: Gravel Road
Track composition: Rough, Firm, Undulating
Slippery when wet?: Yes
Suitable for bikes <650cc? Beginner
Suitable for bikes >650cc? Intermediate
River crossings? No
Rode on Dec 21st. First 3 kms or so is getting quite rutted and there’s potholes everywhere. Below this first section, once you get in the native, the road is in great shape. Fast and flowing and so much fun
Checked this out on the weekend, cool little camp ground. Be a good base for the 42nd traverse. There is a track that runs to the 42nd from the end of the campground that I’ll check out sometime. Road seemed to be fine condition wise, few bumps and such, nothing unexpected from a forestry road. Worth a look if your in the area and does provide a few good photo opportunities.
Rode this yesterday. In very good condition – wouldn’t hesitate to take the S10 in. The caves are a bit of a disappointment though 😉
Was here over the weekend. Great spot with no phone coverage and surprisingly quiet considering it’s location next to the 42.
On the campsite, the ground is a bit lumpy (likely due to the number of 4x4s that frequent it) and finding a flat spot to pitch tents was limited but once setup we had a blast. BYO loo paper as the long drops don’t seem to be tended to often.