French Pass lies at the northern tip of the South Island in the Tasman region, where a narrow channel separates the mainland from D'Urville Island. Getting there is half the adventure: the route follows scenic gravel roads that wind through the Marlborough Sounds, passing little localities like Okiwi Bay and Elaine Bay along the way.

This is an easy, well-formed gravel drive rather than a technical 4WD challenge, but the payoff is the views, which are genuinely stunning in both directions on a clear day. The pass itself is the dramatic highlight, with the swirling tidal waters between the headlands.

Allow plenty of time to explore the small bays and settlements you'll pass through, and pick a good day for the best of the scenery. It's a relaxed, rewarding trip that's well worth ticking off the list.