Kaiwhata Road is a scenic gravel route winding through the Wairarapa hill country out to the coastal township of Riversdale Beach. Although it sits in the ManawatuWhanganui region's reach, it threads through rolling farmland and hills before reaching the coast by the back way.

The going is generally easy on a well-formed gravel surface, gentle enough that capable 2WDs manage it in good conditions. You may strike corrugations in places thanks to logging truck traffic, but this is a relaxed, low-stress drive rather than a technical 4WD challenge.

It takes a bit longer than the sealed route, but the journey rewards you with the main viewpoint looking out over the coast. It's a pleasant alternative for anyone wanting to soak up the rolling hill country scenery on their way to the beach.