Out on Wellington's South Coast near Owhiro Bay, this is one of the city's best known 4WD runs. The coast is rugged and the views are the main event, with seal colonies along the way and wind turbines on the hill visible from the far end. Plenty of spots to pull over for lunch and take it all in. Allow around 4 hours return at a leisurely pace.

The first stretch is well graded and easy enough, fine for a stock 4WD. Past the infamous Devil's Gate it changes character: long soft sand and pebble beaches where vehicles bog so often it's almost a local tradition. Air down, use low range and carry recovery gear. There's an optional stream crossing further on, sharp rocks that'll reshape a running board, and slippery seaweed that bogs up in wheel arches.

Before Devil's Gate, stick to the track and slow down. There are lots of walkers and mountain bikers about, and ongoing pressure to close vehicle access.

Note it's closed to vehicles Sundays, 6am to 6pm.