Tararua

Tararua refers to several geographic and administrative entities in the North Island of New Zealand, including the Tararua Range, Tararua Forest Park, and Tararua District.

The Tararua Range is a rugged mountain range that runs roughly north to south across the lower North Island. It forms a broad spine that separates the windward western side from the interior, extending from near Foxton/Manawatu Gorge toward the eastern ranges near the Tararua District. The range is known for its rugged terrain, variable alpine weather, and significant rainfall catchments. It attracts trampers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts who access backcountry huts and tracks; conditions can be challenging, with rapidly changing weather and strong winds.

Tararua Forest Park covers much of the range and is administered by the Department of Conservation. It preserves native forest communities and features extensive tramping networks, river valleys, and scenic vistas. The park provides backcountry recreation while protecting biodiversity and watershed values.

Tararua District is a local government district in the Manawatū-Whanganui region. The district's administrative center is Dannevirke; towns include Pahiatua, Eketahuna, and Woodville. The district combines rural farmland with forested hills and the foothills of the Tararua Range; its economy is based on agriculture, forestry, services, and tourism related to outdoor recreation.

The name Tararua is of Māori origin, and is used for the range, forest park, and district.