In the hills between Dunedin and Lawrence, this gravel road runs deep into the Clutha backcountry through pine forest and native bush. The country here was once a busy gold rush settlement, and much of old Waipori now lies under Lake Mahinerangi, which formed when the area was flooded.

The driving is easy backcountry gravel, weaving through forest and along quiet bush tracks.

Waipori Falls and the open water of Lake Mahinerangi are the main reasons to head out this way. Quiet, off the beaten track, and worth it if you like a bit of gold-mining history with your drive.