Top 10 Most Dangerous Roads in New Zealand
New Zealand is an amazing country with vibrant cities, rugged countryside, and amazing places to visit and things to do. It is purpose-built for road trips but be warned, some of the most dangerous roads in the world are here. Take a look.
1. Skippers Canyon
This road is so dangerous that you need a permit to drive it. Featuring sheer drops of several hundred metres and twisting sharp winding bends it gets very interesting if you meet a vehicle coming from the opposite direction. Here, one of you has to reverse up to 3 miles to let the other pass.
2. Crown Range Road
Although fully paved the road linking Queenstown to Wanaka is the highest main road in the country, reaching an altitude of 1,121m above sea level. The road features hairpin bends and steep drops, making it a dangerous road.
3. Milford Road
A drive along the Milford Road is recommended for its scenic value alone, and much of Lord of the Rings films were shot here. There are plenty of viewing spots providing you can negotiate the road that takes you around waterfalls, rainforests, and rivers.
4. Cardrona Pass
Although Queensland has earned the title, ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, the winding Cardrona Pass offers a driving challenge to suit all thrill-seekers who prefer to behind the wheel while enjoying the ride.
5. Forgotten World Highway
As well as having a brilliant name, the road offers a brilliant drive. Taking you through 148 km of rugged countryside the road climbs mountains and runs along river gorges. Some of the detours like a ride out to Mount Damper Falls, are worth the effort.
6. Takaka Hill
Tracing the valleys of the Takaka and Riwaka Rivers this road takes you to an altitude of 791m at its highest point. The road is not exactly dangerous, but you’ll still need to exercise a cool head to negotiate the steep winding bends.
7. SH38 Lake Waikaremoana
New Zealand offers several amazing driving experiences, and this is one of the most interesting ones. The 121 km of road takes you through the Urewera National Park. Much of the road is gravel, and every so often you might meet the Tūhoe people, riding horses.
8. Whaanga Coast
Any region that is used in rally driving is going to make for a great driving challenge. As well as driving the coast road you may want to visit the forest as part of your trip.
9. Ohakune Mountain Road
Head to the Taupo Volcanic Zone within the Tongariro National Park, and you can drive one of the highest roads in the country. The road is a challenge thanks to its unpredictable weather. This and the views make the journey worth it alone.
10. Tasman Valley Road
The 7.2 km road is known for its unpredictable weather and high wind speed. It leads to Wakefield Falls, one of the most scenic parts of New Zealand. The Tasman Glacier is stunning, and you can’t fail to notice it on any trip.