Heading up the side of Lake Tekapo, this gravel road runs towards the Godley and Macaulay valleys with turquoise water on one side and big peaks on the other. Long, well-graded stretches eventually open out to broad braided riverbeds that hint at what's further in.

It's an easy drive on a surface most vehicles can manage, so you'll often see 2WD campers out alongside the 4WDs. The grade lets you keep a steady pace, and the run up to the Macaulay hut is a popular outing. On the through route to the Godley and Macaulay valleys there are a few small river crossings as alternatives to the bridges.

The scenery is the real drawcard year round, from mirror-like reflections when the lake sits low to a full coat of snow in winter, with Roundhill nearby for a play in the powder. Plenty of folk reckon the only trouble is stopping for photos at every turn. Mountain conditions can change quickly, so it's worth checking the forecast before pushing out.