Driving up the side of an active volcano is something pretty special. The Tukino Access Road climbs the eastern flank of Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park, near Waiouru in the central North Island, and rewards you with stunning, otherworldly views — the rocky, barren landscape has more than one driver feeling like they're on Mars. It's an amazing drive year round: head up in summer for the unique scenery, or in winter for some epic (and far more challenging) snow driving.

The route is rocky, rough and corrugated in places, with a couple of small stream crossings. Beyond the 2WD carpark it climbs steeply and gets very exposed to strong wind and rapidly changing weather. It's not technical and most 4WDs (often 2WDs in good conditions) manage easily, but sharp rocks can cut tyres, so take it easy. Leaving the track risks an $800 DOC fine, and it's a dog-free zone.

The gate roughly three-quarters of the way up is locked when the ski field is closed; a free key (donation appreciated) is available from the Waiouru Army Museum or the Taupo, Turangi and Ohakune visitor centres. Without it you can still drive most of the way and miss only the steep final section.