Nov 7, 2018

New Zealand's Most Scenic Roads


Often in New Zealand, the journey can be a more beautiful experience than the destination itself.

Category: General
Posted by: Rite Price Rentals

New Zealand has some truly magnificent scenic drives. Here are a few we think you should definitely experience at some point in your life:

Queen Charlotte Drive
This road links the towns of Picton and Havelock whilst providing views of the stunning Marlborough Sounds. The 40 km drive can get quite twisty and turny, so it’s recommended only more experienced drivers take the route. Do be prepared to make many stops as the views captivate you and inspire the taking of countless photographs. There are lookouts and coves all along the road and you will want to stop at all of them, so make sure you factor that in when considering the time it will take.

Blenheim - Kaikoura
Whilst the road was damaged considerably by a large earthquake in 2016, it still provides some of the best views in the country. The first half of the trip will take you through rural countryside with rolling hills and sheep galore. The second part will have the endless pacific ocean to your left and epic hills and mountains to your right. Keeping your eyes on the road can be a real struggle while surrounded by such beauty so be sure to take some breaks to soak in the views before carrying on!

East Cape
Located on the eastern coast of the north island, this drive takes you around the easternmost part of the country, from Gisborne to Opotiki. Non-stop the trip will take around 4-5 hours, but you should give yourself a day or two to allow stopping at the many towns and landmarks along the way. This part of the country is rich in Maori culture and history and it is evident throughout the drive. We highly recommend taking some time to learn about the history of the area as it will add so much more to the trip. On top of that, the views along the way are awe-inspiring. Beaches, rolling hills, wild horses and historic buildings will keep you captivated for the duration of the drive.

West Coast of the South Island
The drive from Greymouth to Haast is indescribably amazing. Having the Southern Alps towering over you the entire way is an incredibly humbling experience. Glaciers, crisp blue glacial streams, huge mountains, windswept beaches and native forest and wildlife provide the quintessential New Zealand scenic drive. A little north of Greymouth you can find the famous ‘Pancake Rocks’. The elements have eroded these limestone deposits into rocks that look like a bunch of stacked pancakes, hence the name. It’s a unique experience walking through the natural structures and quite unlike anything you will ever see.

The best way to view this country is undoubtedly at your own pace. Hiring a car from Rite Price Rentals will allow you to take your time as you discover every beautiful spot in this majestic country.

Explore New Zealand’s scenic roads with Rite Price Rentals! Rent a car from Rotorua, Hamilton or Tauranga and explore everything that New Zealand has to offer. We have car or van hire options depending on the size of your family or group. Rite Price Rentals is New Zealand’s trusted car rental company.