Porter Road is a trickier forest route winding through the hills of the Bay of Plenty. The track threads through native and plantation forest, offering a more challenging run for confident drivers. Conditions can change quickly here, so take care after rain when the surface becomes slippery and traction is hard to find. Depending on the day, a winch may be required to get through the steeper or greasier sections, so come prepared and ideally travel with a second vehicle. The forest setting is quiet and scenic, with the route following the terrain through the hill country. This is best suited to drivers with some experience and properly equipped 4WDs rather than casual sightseers. Pack recovery gear, check your vehicle before you set off, and allow plenty of time to tackle the route at a sensible pace.