The best 4wd track in New Zealand? Quite possibly! We explore the old gold mining settlement of Macetown before heading up the West Coast, stopping in at some awesome spots then onto the Braeburn Range and up Porika Road before heading up to Picton to catch the ferry back to Wellington.
Up in the hills above Arrowtown, this one follows the Arrow River through a valley ringed by big mountains to the old gold-mining town of Macetown. The drawcard is the 20-plus river crossings each way, weaving up the river before you reach the stone ruins and restored buildings at the end. There's a short walk and interpretation panels once you get there, and a fair bit of history to take in.
After most crossings the track narrows to one vehicle wide with steep drop-offs of 100m or more to the river, so passing oncoming traffic takes real care. A UHF helps. The second half gets scratchy, so expect some bush rash, especially in a wide vehicle. River levels rise fast after rain, so check the Arrow River flow before you commit. In high water crossings can go over the bonnet, and a snorkel and good line choice are advised, though in low summer flows plenty of fairly stock 4WDs get through fine.
There are some great overnight spots with cracking views, but the sandflies and mozzies can be fierce, so bring serious repellent. No cell reception out here.
A gate and paid permit system is now in place, so register and pay online before you arrive. Leave no trace.
An easy gravel road that runs from Glenorchy up through Paradise, at the head of Lake Wakatipu. The driving is straightforward and most vehicles will handle it in normal conditions, with several shallow ford crossings adding the most interest along the way.
The payoff is the scenery: big mountains and old native forest that's famously featured as Lord of the Rings filming country. A little side track at the far end drops down to the river, and the route carries on to the boundary of Mount Aspiring National Park. Dogs aren't permitted beyond that point.
It's a relaxed, scenic cruise rather than a technical challenge. It's popular too, so expect to share it with rental vehicles and tour buses, which can take the edge off the quiet. Take it slow, enjoy the views, and keep an eye out for oncoming traffic on the narrower bits.
An easily accessible campsite. You can boat, fish for trout or swim in Lake Mapourika.
An easy run on well-maintained gravel through the hills near Lake Rotoroa, with the road climbing up towards the lake and good views opening out along the way. It's a short outing, the sort you can tick off in an afternoon, with the country around you well worth a look.
The stream crossings have been concreted, so they're simple enough to get over. Figure on roughly 15 to 30 minutes one way.
This is a recognised cycling trail and sees plenty of motorbikes too, so keep an eye out and share it courteously. If you're after something longer, you can link it up with Porika Road for a bigger loop through the area.
Running between St Arnaud and Lake Rotoroa, this is a good scenic alternative to the highway. It links the Howard Valley end in the north over the hill and down to the lake shore. The payoff is that descent towards Rotoroa, with a fine outlook over the water before you drop into a set of tight hairpins.
The Rotoroa side is notably steep, so drop into low range to keep things controlled and your brakes happy. The rest winds gently over the hill on gravel with good flow and plenty of room to pass in most spots. After a regrade in early 2025 it's an easy gravel run. If your vehicle has a poor turning circle, start from the north end so you face the hairpins on the way down.
The country up top can get slick after rain, particularly on the side tracks beneath the powerlines, and there are some gnarlier mini-tracks branching off if you want a play. Gold-fossicking areas add a bit of interest, and there's a handy camp spot at the base by the lake. Roughly an hour from Nelson, well worth the detour.
Tucked along the shore of Whatamango Bay in the Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui area, this quiet, simple campsite sits an easy 20-30 minute drive from the Picton ferry, making it a handy stop if you're rolling off a late boat. The setting is peaceful and beachside, with bush around the edges and plenty of open space for tents and non-powered sites.
There are sheltered spots tucked near the bush or by a small river on the left of the entrance, where you can pitch up out of the wind and fall asleep to the sound of running water. Facilities are straightforward but well kept, with clean flush toilets and tap water (not treated, so boil before use).
It's a good base for fishing and exploring the Sound, though the bay isn't ideal for swimming, and cellphone reception is patchy depending on where you set up. With heaps of space, it's easy to book online and find a spot. A reliable, restful overnight near the ferry.