In the early hours of the morning, long before the sun rises, dedicated trampers begin their journey through one of New Zealand’s most grueling tramping challenges. By Friday night, the walk ends, only for them to rise again at 4 a.m. on Saturday. They push through 16-17 hours of relentless trekking, snatch a few hours of sleep, and repeat the feat on Sunday. This relentless pace takes them through more than 7,000 vertical meters of climbing—equivalent to summiting Mount Everest twice from base camp.

Andy Carruthers is a name synonymous with tramping in New Zealand, particularly in the Tararua Range. Revered for his intimate knowledge of the Tararua S-K route, Carruthers has completed this formidable challenge multiple times, earning him respect and admiration within the tramping community. His achievements and contributions have made him a go-to figure for insights and advice on tackling the S-K, a challenge that has become a rite of passage for serious trampers in New Zealand.

Carruthers’s expertise is highlighted in the documentary Tararua S-K, where he shares his experiences and deep understanding of the Schormann-Kaitoke (S-K) route. The film, which delves into the 60-year history of this weekend challenge, portrays the S-K as the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance. Through Carruthers’s narration, viewers gain a profound appreciation for the history, challenges, and culture that define the S-K.

The Tararua S-K, short for Schormann-Kaitoke, is not just a tramping route; it’s a legendary trial of strength and resilience. Spanning approximately 80 kilometers of rugged, remote terrain, the S-K route stretches between Schormann and Kaitoke. With steep ascents, unpredictable weather, and challenging navigation, the route demands more than just physical stamina—it requires determination and grit. While some attempt to complete the S-K in under 48 hours, others approach it as a multi-day adventure, immersing themselves in the wild beauty of the Tararua Range.

The origins of the Tararua S-K challenge can be traced back to the 1960s. Back then, hikers would often take a train to Upper Hutt, a city northeast of Wellington, which served as the gateway to the Tararua Range. From there, they would embark on the S-K route, traversing the length of the range over the weekend. The goal was to finish by Sunday night and return to work by Monday morning—a true testament to their endurance.

Carruthers himself has attempted the S-K six times, successfully completing it on four occasions. When asked if the route is suitable for children, he responded with a firm, “No, but you can take them to one of the huts,” underscoring the challenge’s demanding nature.

The documentary Tararua S-K is a celebration of the heart and spirit of the adventure community. Originally rooted in tramping clubs, the S-K challenge has evolved, now drawing elite mountain runners who push themselves to complete the route in under 24 hours. The film, which features eight interviews and extensive historical documentation, won the Best Human-Interest award at the Toronto Documentary Film Festival. It captures the raw passion and drive that compel individuals to tackle such a formidable challenge. The breathtaking scenery, right here in Wellington, is a reminder of the wild beauty that New Zealand has to offer.