A fairly narrow gravel run that links through to the coastal settlement of Kawhia. The surface swaps between deep loose gravel and hardpacked dirt, and the road shifts from open flat stretches to winding, steep sections with plenty of blind corners.

Despite the variety it's an easy, scenic drive that most vehicles will handle fine. Along the way you'll take in valleys, marshes, the odd derelict house, and the turbines of the Te Uku windfarm spinning away on the ridges. Drivers consistently rate it an easy, picturesque one.

Once you reach Kawhia, it's worth heading to Hot Water Beach (Te Puia Springs). At low tide you can dig your own natural hot spa in the sand. It's far quieter than its more famous Coromandel namesake, so you'll often share it with only a handful of others. A relaxed run with a good coastal payoff at the end.