A scenic backcountry drive through a remote Taranaki valley, winding out across rugged hill country with good views the whole way. It's a real adventure into wild, hillbilly country, well worth the trip when the weather plays along.

The surface is a mix of silt and clay, so in true Taranaki style it turns greasy the moment any water gets on it. Take care, as in places the track runs close to a cliff edge with very little margin for error when things get slippery. In the dry it's a well-maintained, easy-graded cruise. Some drivers reckon wide mud tyres are worth it if you want a bit more grip.

The track crosses private land, so stay on the route, leave gates as you found them and don't disturb any stock. It closes over winter, from 1 April to 1 November, to protect the surface and keep people out of trouble.