I took the all-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado on a proper Overland NZ style adventure - from the coast to the hills.
A short run down a lower North Island west coast beach - could be a touch tight in a high tide, but fairly easy going apart from that.
You'll have to turn around and head back the way you came.
Winding through the picturesque Tararua Forest Park, the Mangahao Power Station Road offers a unique journey into the history of New Zealand’s early hydroelectric developments. Originally built to support the Mangahao Power Station, this well-graded gravel road takes you past the dams that feed the station, providing scenic views and a sense of connection to the country’s engineering heritage.
The road is a well-formed gravel route, suitable for most vehicles, although its narrowness in some sections requires careful driving and attention to other road users. As you ascend, the forest closes in, and you’ll feel like you’re venturing deeper into a remote and tranquil environment.
Along the way, you’ll pass the dams that divert water to the Mangahao Power Station. These feats of engineering are not only functional but also blend seamlessly into the lush landscape. The road continues into the Tararua Forest Park, offering opportunities for further exploration, including hiking and birdwatching.
A short little route down to the Mangahao River. Keep an ear out for the siren as the river level can change quickly - outside of that though it's a cool spot with a short cruise through some native forest to get down to the river.