The Road to the Tukino ski-field off the desert Road. Very unusual landscapes and stunning views of Mts Ruapehu and Ngaurohoe. There is a minimalist DOC camp halfway up this road with absolutly no facilities, but wonderful place to stay a night.
Travelling from the North to the South of New Zealand in a 6 meter Bus
Thank you Harvey, I’ve driven past the Tukino Access Rd several times and wondered what it was like. By the look of it though, I wouldn’t attempt to take my little car up there. So it was great tosee the views from your perspective!
Hi Ruth, the state of the road varies, the last time I was there there were such large pools of water lying there that I did not bother going any further. When the road has been maintained it is quite passable by most vehicles, but there is a sign saying “4 wheel drive only from this point forward” which is where parking and camping is possible .
WOW, look at this place!
Are you able to drive on this road during dry summer days with a normal 2wd?
Hi Eddie
In a dry summer, no trouble with a normal 2WD and have seen them up at the DOC Camp which is where I was. From there on they recommend 4WD only. As I said in my reply to Ruth above, there was once when it had been quite wet when I turned around and did not make it. It also depends on how well they maintain the road. My score is 3 out of 4.