Where is the Bertrand Road Swing Bridge?
New Zealand, oceania
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're exploring the northern part of the Taranaki region on New Zealand's North Island, near Huirangi, Lepperton, and Tikorangi. Suddenly, you come across the Bertrand Road Swing Bridge, a totally unique wooden suspension bridge. Seriously, this thing is historic (it's a Category 2 structure!) and pretty special.
So, how long is it? Enough to handle up to two cars and twenty people at a time. Legend has it that back in the day, crossing the river here was a real pain and getting around wasn't easy, so this bridge was built to solve that problem. Over the years, it's had its ups and downs, even shutting down to cars for a while and forcing people to take a longer detour. Luckily, the community rallied together, held fundraisers (including a "buy a plank" thing!), and got some grants to bring it back to its former glory. They even reused some of the original suspension parts! Now it's open again and sees around 150-200 vehicles a day. Definitely a cool spot to check out if you're in the area!
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in oceania
hardTake the Scenic Bruce Road and Discover Whakapapa ski field
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, in the Manawatū-Whanganui region, awaits Whakapapa – a ski resort sitting pretty at a cool 1,624m (5,328ft). You'll find it nestled in Tongariro National Park, and getting there is half the fun! The paved road, Bruce Road, is surprisingly smooth by local ski field standards. Clocking in at just 6.2km (3.85 miles), don't let the short distance fool you – this climb is STEEP, with gradients hitting 11% in places, as it gains 457 meters in altitude. Heads up: if you're feeling extra adventurous (and have the right vehicle), there's a rough, unpaved service road near the top, strictly for 4x4s only, which climbs even higher to 1,778m (5,833ft)! Perched high on Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand's largest active volcano, the views are insane, but the weather can be a bit of a wild card. So, pack accordingly and be prepared for anything. Chains are often required, especially if you’re in a 2WD, as you get closer to Whakapapa Village.
moderateDriving through the narrow Moki Tunnel in NZ
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in New Zealand's North Island, in the Taranaki region, lies the Moki Tunnel. Picture this: a 180-meter-long, one-lane tunnel carved straight through the landscape! Back in 1935, some seriously dedicated folks from the Public Works Department hand-dug this bad boy with nothing but picks and shovels to make the Moki Saddle passable during winter. Can you believe it? Originally, it was only 5 meters high, but they dug deeper in 1989, boosting it to 7 meters. The road itself? It's part of the legendary Forgotten World Highway (State Highway 43) between Taumarunui and Stratford – a drive you won't soon forget! Just past the tunnel, the road opens into the scenic Tangarakau Gorge, where the pavement turns to gravel. Word to the wise: it can get slick when it rains. Inside Whanganui National Park, this tunnel is affectionately nicknamed "Hobbit's Hole" (even has a sign to prove it!). Just a heads-up – vehicles over 4.5 meters are a no-go, and it’s snug even for regular cars. There's a gravel parking area where you can stretch your legs and learn about the tunnel's history. Seriously, this is a must-see for anyone craving a bit of off-the-beaten-path New Zealand magic!
hardDriving the Taumatamaire Road is not a piece of cake
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, Kiwis and adventure-seekers, listen up! Ever heard of Taumatamaire Road? It's a wild ride in the western North Island of New Zealand that'll get your heart pumping. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking a completely unsealed, narrow track with some seriously steep sections – think a grunty 12% gradient in places! You'll climb all the way up to a repeater station, perched at a cool 402m (1,318ft) above sea level. Trust me, the views are worth it, but save this one for daylight hours. Night driving? No way, mate. The road stretches for 23.6 km (14.66 miles), winding its way from Awakino, right where the Awakino River meets the sea, to State Highway 3 south of Mahoenui. Before you go, get the latest local intel – conditions can change quickly!
moderateWhere is the Pomarangai Road?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! You HAVE to experience the Pomarangai Road, tucked away in the western reaches of the Waikato region of New Zealand. Find it east of Piopio. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks – we're talking totally unpaved. You'll want a 4x4; trust me, you'll need it on this narrow, winding beauty. Clocking in at roughly 11km, this road stretches from west to east from Paewhenua Road to Aria Road. The scenery is seriously epic, but keep your eyes peeled – it's a bit of a wild ride! Think tight corners and some decent elevation changes. Definitely a journey for those who like a little thrill with their views!