
How to drive the challenging yet scenic Pomarangai Road on the North Island?
New Zealand, oceania
21 km
495 m
extreme
Year-round
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! I've got a hidden gem for you in New Zealand's North Island. Picture this: you're east of Marokopa, smack-dab in the Waikato region, ready to tackle Pomarangai Road.
This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking pure, unadulterated, unpaved adventure through the breathtaking Whareorino Forest. And trust me, "breathtaking" applies to both the scenery and the road itself.
For 13 glorious miles, you'll be winding and weaving your way through narrow sections and seriously steep climbs, topping out at a cool 1,624 feet. This track demands your full attention, but rewards you with views that'll etch themselves into your memory. Just picture lush forest vistas at every turn. The road runs from Mangatoa Road near Moeatoa to Ngapaenga Road close to Pomarangai. Get ready for an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path experience!
Where is it?
How to drive the challenging yet scenic Pomarangai Road on the North Island? is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -40.3585, 174.7013
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 21 km
- Max Elevation
- 495 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -40.3585, 174.7013
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