When was the Ohakune Mountain Road built?
New Zealand, oceania
16.2 km
1,630 m
moderate
Year-round
Cruising up Ohakune Mountain Road in New Zealand's North Island is an absolute must-do! This fully sealed road, nestled at the southern edge of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, is one of the highest in the country, reaching a whopping 1,630m (5,347ft) above sea level. The 16.2 km (10 mile) drive starts at Old Station Road and climbs with an average gradient of 6.26% (some sections hitting 15%), giving you some serious elevation gain and those leg-burning switchbacks we secretly love.
Keep an eye out for the unique flora, like the huge-leafed mountain cabbage trees. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, a service road will take you even higher (but maybe leave that to the pros!).
The road's usually open year-round, but snow can shut things down in winter, so be prepared for changeable conditions. It's an alpine environment, after all! Even though stunning views await around every bend, remember that the weather can turn fast, so pack accordingly.
Set aside about 20 minutes without stops to soak it all in – on a clear day, you might even spot the South Island! There are plenty of places to pull over and snap some pics, and while you should have cellphone service most of the way, expect some patchy spots. Honestly, you'll be too busy admiring the scenery to even notice!
Where is it?
When was the Ohakune Mountain Road built? is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -39.2981, 175.5473
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 16.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,630 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -39.2981, 175.5473
Related Roads in oceania
hardDriving the Hay River Track along an extinct river
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: you, your trusty 4WD, and nearly 600 miles of pure, unadulterated Aussie outback. That's the Hay River Track in a nutshell! This epic track carves right through the Simpson Desert, connecting Birdsville in Queensland to Gemtree in the Northern Territory, following an ancient riverbed. Forget paved highways; we're talking sand, sand, and more sand! You'll definitely need a vehicle with low-range gearing and high clearance to conquer this one. Opened to the public in 2000, it's a relatively new adventure, but one best left to experienced drivers – seriously, don't go it alone! Prime time for this trek is May to October – avoid those scorching summer months like the plague! Think insane heat and potential vehicle-killing conditions. Stock up on everything you need – and then double it! There's absolutely nothing out there, so you're 100% self-sufficient. We're talking at least seven liters of water per person per day (plus emergency supplies!), spare parts, and a satellite phone for those "just in case" moments. This isn't just a road trip; it's a proper expedition through some of the most stunningly remote scenery Australia has to offer. Just remember to be prepared, respect the environment, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
moderateIs Danseys Pass road sealed?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, picture this: Danseys Pass Road, snaking through the South Island of New Zealand, right on the border of Canterbury and Otago. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks! We're talking about a 51.5km (32-mile) gravel road climbing to 910m (2,985ft) in the Kakanui Mountains. You can start near Naseby and wind your way east to the Livingstone-Duntroon Road. This road has history! It was built way back in 1862, first for sheep farmers, then gold miners. They named it after some guy called William Heywood Dansey. Now, the road is pretty manageable for most cars. You don't need a 4x4, but get ready for some steep sections – we're talking up to 13% gradients! Definitely not bus or campervan friendly. This scenic gravel road is mostly pretty well maintained, but it gets narrow in spots with some blind corners thrown in. But is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are insane, the road cuts straight through the mountains, going through farmland and tussock mountain scenery. Just be aware, it's exposed up there. Snow is common, so check the weather before you go and don't go if the weather is bad. Usually, the pass is open year-round, but snow or heavy rain can close it up. If you're in the area, do not miss this adventure!
hardHow to Drive the Unsealed Lake Road in New Zealand's Eastern North Island
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along Lake Road in New Zealand's North Island, heading straight for the gorgeous Lake Waikaremoana, right in the heart of Tuhoe country. Seriously, the views are epic! You'll find this gem nestled in the northern Hawke's Bay region, right inside Te Urewera National Park. It's part of the Te Urewera Rainforest Route (also known as New Zealand State Highway 38), and honestly, most cars can handle it. Just be ready for stretches of gravel road that wind through lush rainforest and past cute little towns. Clocking in at 57 km (35 miles) from Frasertown, things get interesting after you cross that one-way bridge over the Aniwaniwa Stream where it becomes Waikaremoana Road. Take it slow, folks! The road is narrow, twisty, and you won't see tons of other cars. The gravel keeps the crowds away, which is kinda nice, but also means you need to be alert. The whole drive is a rollercoaster through the park, so buckle up for some adventure!
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.