Driving the Narrow Kiwi Road in Taranaki's Most Isolated Countryside
New Zealand, oceania
17.9 km
363 m
hard
Year-round
Hey adventure seekers! Want a taste of real New Zealand? Then ditch the main drag and head to Kiwi Road in northern Taranaki!
This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking narrow, unpaved, and a little rough around the edges. Think winding tracks where two cars might have to play chicken. Plus, the edges are getting a bit crumbly, so leave the RV at home. But don't let that scare you off! It's a steep climb to 363m (1,190ft), but keep your speed down, and you'll be fine. Seriously, this feels more like a goat track in sections!
This 17.9 km (11.12 miles) gem runs from Moki Road to Okau Road, hugging State Highway 3 but offering a totally different vibe. Forget traffic jams – this is pure, isolated bliss through some of Taranaki's most stunning scenery. If you love nature, you'll be in heaven. Trust me, you'll want to build in time for photo stops – the views are insane!
The grand finale? The Kiwi Road Tunnel, a seriously cool, narrow tunnel built way back in 1915. At 154m (507ft) long, it's a tight squeeze and a total throwback. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Where is it?
Driving the Narrow Kiwi Road in Taranaki's Most Isolated Countryside is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -40.6693, 173.2733
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 17.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 363 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -40.6693, 173.2733
Related Roads in oceania
hardHow long is the Zig Zag Scenic Drive?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: you're cruising down Zig Zag Scenic Drive, a wild one-way adventure carved into the side of the Darling Ranges, right in Gooseberry Hill, Western Australia. This isn't your average Sunday drive; it's a 2.9km (1.8 miles) descent through Gooseberry Hill National Park that'll have you on the edge of your seat. We're talking hairpin turns, people! This narrow bitumen ribbon of road twists and turns, offering up a constantly changing landscape. One minute you're hugging rock faces, the next you're peering over steep drops with panoramic views stretching all the way to Perth city and the Indian Ocean. Originally, this zig-zagging route was part of a railway line hauling timber, but now it's a photographer's dream and a birdwatcher's paradise. Just be warned, it's narrow with limited pull-off spots, so share the road with cyclists and pedestrians. It's a popular spot, but with a 40km/h speed limit! The road opens at 11 am and closes at 8:30 pm seven days per week. And while the views are killer, be aware that some drivers can get a little rowdy with the screeching tires. But don't let that stop you – the Zig Zag Scenic Drive is a must-do for anyone chasing stunning scenery and a bit of an adrenaline rush.
moderateWhere is Nevis Road?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Nevis Road in Otago, New Zealand? Oh, you *need* to experience this drive. Think steep climbs, river crossings, and views for days! You'll find it snaking near the Southland border, in the lower part of the South Island. Clocking in at 65 km (40 miles), this unpaved beauty runs from Bannockburn Road (near Cromwell in Central Otago) all the way to State Highway 6 (close to Garston in northern Southland) — and it’s packed with adventure. A 2WD *might* make it to Duffers Saddle during the warmer months, but honestly, a 4WD is your best bet. It’s a fun drive in good weather with a decent 4WD. Heads up: beyond Duffers Saddle, you'll *definitely* need that 4WD. The Nevis Valley section, from Bannockburn to Garston, is strictly 4WD territory and can get pretty gnarly with lots of fords. Nestled high in the Old Woman Range, you'll hit a peak of 1,275 m (4,183 ft) above sea level. Keep an eye out for the sign proudly declaring it the highest public road in New Zealand! But fair warning, the weather can be a real wild card up here. The road's closed during the winter months (early June to September 30th). Even in summer, things can get dicey fast, with snow or high river levels shutting things down. Pro tip: Don't go it alone! Bring a buddy or another vehicle; you're a long way from civilization. This trip is REMOTE. There's zero cell service, so if you get stuck, you're on your own. Traffic is practically non-existent, and there are about 26 river crossings to navigate. You'll spot echoes of the area's history all around. After heavy rain, expect mud and deeper water crossings.
hardHow To Travel The Glen Chee Road in NSW
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're looking for a true off-road experience near Sydney, you HAVE to check out Glen Chee Road. Nestled in the stunning Blue Mountains, this isn't your typical Sunday drive. We're talking a 12.6km (7.82 miles) unpaved track running north-south, from Ganbenang to Black Range Road, deep in the National Park. Seriously, you'll need a 4x4 for this one. It's a proper challenge, especially when it's wet. Think slippery conditions, creek crossings that can get deep, and floodways where flash flooding is a real risk. After rain, the mud is relentless and those creeks? Seriously deep. But if you're prepared, the views are worth it! Just be sure to check the conditions before you go and pack your sense of adventure.
moderateHow to tackle the ravines and river crossings on the Humbert Track in the Northern Territory?
🇦🇺 Australia
Alright, adventure-seekers, listen up! The Humbert Track in Australia's Northern Territory is calling your name! Picture this: you, your trusty 4WD, and 62.5 kilometers of pure Outback bliss. Nestled south of Timber Creek within Gregory National Park, this old stock route winds through the gorgeous valleys of Fig Tree Creek and Humbert River, a real taste of Aussie history. Most of the track is pretty cruisy, but don't get too comfy – you'll hit some rugged patches, especially when tackling the creek and river crossings. They're the main challenge, so be prepared to get your tyres wet! Speaking of water, this track can turn treacherous after rain. Fast-flowing creeks and slippery mud can pop up out of nowhere and close the road. But on a good day, it’s an easy, slow-paced drive with stunning scenery all around. So, if you're up for a proper Aussie adventure, the Humbert Track is waiting!