Long run up the side of the Pukaki River through the Mackenzie high country, with grand scenery and a real sense of remoteness. There are some good camping spots along the river, and you'll often spot salmon in the water near the iron bridge.

The going is bumpy but mechanically easy gravel. Most reports knock it out in 2WD, so it's a good one for beginners getting some time off the seal, though the relentless corrugations reward airing down and taking it slow. Speeds vary from a crawl of 15-30km/h over the rough sections to faster open stretches. A couple of things break up the drive: a narrow old iron bridge that creaks as you cross, a touch nerve-wracking in wide vehicles, and the lone chimney that's all that's left of an old hunter's hut.

The track end follows the riverbed near Lake Pukaki, where Meridian periodically releases water from the dam and spillway. Worth keeping an eye on lake levels and staying clear of the river beds when releases are on. Plenty of drivers loop out via Haldon Arm Road to save their suspension on the way back.