Waikawau Tunnel Beach was cut with picks and shovels
New Zealand, oceania
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along the West Coast of New Zealand's North Island, somewhere between Marokopa and Awakino. You're heading for Waikawau Beach, and the only way in is through a crazy-cool tunnel.
Waikawau Road is a bit of a wild ride to get to, winding its way along the coast, but trust me, it's worth it. Then you get to the tunnel. This isn't just any tunnel; it's 80 meters long and carved right through the sandstone cliffs. Back in 1911, some hardcore workers dug it out by hand so farmers could move cattle. Now, it's just for pedestrians, adding a touch of adventure to your beach trip.
Emerging from the tunnel is like stepping into another world. You're greeted by a totally isolated black sand beach. This hidden gem on the King County coast is the perfect reward for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Where is it?
Waikawau Tunnel Beach was cut with picks and shovels is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -42.4586, 173.5071
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- -42.4586, 173.5071
Related Roads in oceania
hardThe Ultimate Guide to Traveling Chard Road in NZ
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're cruising around the Otago region of New Zealand and fancy a serious adrenaline rush, you HAVE to check out Chard Road. This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a nail-biting, single-lane gravel track that hugs the Kawarau River as it carves its way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge. Imagine twisting and turning along the mountainside with a sheer, fifty-meter drop right next to you the *entire* time. Yeah, it's that intense. Starting from the nice, easy paved State Highway 6, this 17km (10.5 mile) rollercoaster throws some seriously steep sections at you, topping out at a 9% gradient. The road's super narrow in spots, so drive carefully and maybe send up a little prayer you don't meet anyone head-on! Back in the day, this was the main route between Queenstown and Cromwell, built for horses and carts way back in 1866. The scenery is epic, the drive is unforgettable, and the bragging rights are all yours!
hardThe unpaved winding road to Cardrona Alpine Resort
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, picture this: you're in New Zealand's South Island, surrounded by the epic Southern Alps. You're heading to Cardrona Alpine Resort, one of the country's top ski spots, but getting there is half the adventure! The road up isn't paved – it's a proper off-road climb! Seriously, this ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a 12.3km (7.64 mile) ascent from the tiny village of Cardrona, gaining a whopping 1,136 meters in elevation. That's an average gradient of 9.23%! You'll climb to 1,648m (5,406ft) above sea level, so the views are gonna be insane. Keep an eye on the weather though, conditions can change in a heartbeat up in these mountains. And pro tip: if you're heading up in winter, snow chains are a must. This is one scenic drive you won't forget!
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.
moderateYour guide to exploring Moralana Scenic Drive through Flinders Ranges
🇦🇺 Australia
Located in South Australia, the Moralana Scenic Drive winds through the Flinders Ranges, offering great views of the landscape. The Moralana Scenic Drive, also known as Moralana Gorge Road, is mostly unpaved as it traverses the Flinders Ranges. It's usually passable for most vehicles in dry conditions but can be challenging after rain, often closing when wet. The drive is especially scenic in late winter and spring. Covering 27.5 km (17.08 miles), it links Outback Highway (B83) to Flinders Ranges Way. Despite its beauty, caution is needed during wet weather, particularly at creek crossings like Moralana Creek, which can flood after heavy rains. Always check local conditions before setting out. Reaching heights up to 429m (1,407ft) above sea level, the drive offers stunning views of Wilpena Pound Range, Bunbinyunna Range, Black Gap Lookout, Elder Range, and the historic Old Cueing Yards. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a great outback adventure. Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our interactive map to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click here to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.