Winding dirt road that climbs up through Hawke's Bay farmland, with rolling pasture and open country opening up as you gain a bit of height. It's an easygoing drive rather than anything technical, so most vehicles will handle it fine.

The run eventually reaches the turn off for the hot pools, which is the real reason most people make the trip. Nothing here will test your 4WD skills, but it's a relaxed scenic cruise through quiet backcountry.