Great New Zealand driving roads....

This section will be added to from time to time.

 

In New Zealand the low population and a well maintained roading system mean driving is can still be a pleasure. Car ownership rates here are among the highest in the world and public travel systems are comparatively under-developed. With some exceptions like the excellent Tranzalpine train between Christchurch and Greymouth, train travel is limited to a single north-south line from Christchurch to Auckland, and characterised by old and slow trains.

These examples here are just a sample of the great touring roads in the South Island.
Because the pleasures of open top motoring are so similar to motorcyle touring, we supply a copy of the excellent NZ Motorcycle Atlas by Peter Mitchell which lists 100 favourite roads, each rated with smileys for their road conditions, traffic and scenic qualities.

 

 

 

Christchurch to Arthurs Pass and Greymouth on State Highway 73
Leaving Christchurch westward on Yaldhurst Road the road climbs gradually up the flat farmlands of the Canterbury plains through the small townships of Darfield and Springfield to the foothills of the Southern Alps where the scenery changes and the road becomes much more windy. Climbing on the narrow road through the native beech forest to Arthurs Pass township is one of the best driving roads in the country. Spectacular mountain views and steep roads continue on to the top of the pass then the new viaduct swoops you down to Otira to the rainforests and mist of the beautiful west coast.
Stop at the carpark at the top of the pass and you might see the friendly native Kea alpine parrots who regrettably have long sharp beaks and and a appetite for rubber trim or convertible tops - so beware!

Christchurch to Banks Peninsula and Akaroa
From central Christchurch you can exit the city either east on the main street - Colombo street - and up onto the Port Hills to follow the top of Lytellton Harbour or take Lincoln Road which winds around the edges of Banks Peninsula as it meets the Canterbury Plains. We would suggest going one way and returning the other but either way they meet up on H75 to follow the delightfully curvy road past Lake Ellesmere towards Lake Forsyth. Little River township is worth a visit for coffee then head on up the smooth and windy road to Hilltop.
From the Hilltop you either descend to Dauvauchelles (early French influences here) or turn left to follow the summit road with wonderful views to contour around the crater rim. Both roads rejoin at Takamatua only a few kilometres from Akaroa township. The roads and views here will put a smile on your face.