Where is Nevis Road?
New Zealand, oceania
65 km
1,275 m
moderate
Year-round
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.
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 65 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,275 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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