Built in 1952 after the Motu River was floated as a hydro dam site, this old road runs into the Raukumara Ranges. From the campsite you ford the Motu River and follow the road as it climbs to around 960 m, traces the ridgeline, then drops steeply back towards the river.

It's a scenic, rocky climb with sweeping views over the valley and plenty of birdsong. The whole thing is heavily overgrown with gorse, vines and low-hanging trees, so expect bush rash and take real care if you're running a rooftop tent or awning. Much of it has the feel of a narrow quad-bike track, with a few genuine challenges along the way, including a notable section right at the bottom.

Come well prepared with a chainsaw and recovery gear like a winch. Worth knowing a large slip around the 16 km mark, three-quarters of the way in, has long blocked the full route, so don't count on getting all the way through to the river. Note we only covered about half the road, and the grade is based on what we drove.