Heath Road

Heath Road offers 4WD enthusiasts a chance to explore a lesser-known route through New Zealand's geothermal heartland near the Rotorua Lakes District. You'll discover a compact 1.3 km trail that showcases the raw, undeveloped character of the North Island's backcountry, where few vehicles have ventured. The relatively flat terrain makes this an accessible option for those looking to add a genuine backcountry experience to their off-road portfolio without extreme technical demands.

As you navigate Heath Road, you'll encounter typical Rotorua district landscape characterized by native bush and forestry areas interspersed with open sections. The driving experience is straightforward, with minimal grade challenges, allowing you to focus on enjoying the natural surroundings rather than wrestling with steep ascents or descents. However, don't let the short distance and easy grade fool you—this is still backcountry terrain where you should prepare appropriately. Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition, carry recovery gear, and check local conditions before heading out, as weather can impact access and track conditions in this region.

Before you set out, use the Newtracs app to confirm current trail conditions and check that this route remains passable. Given that no vehicles have officially logged this trail yet, you may have the unique opportunity to be among the first to document your experience and help build community knowledge about Heath Road's accessibility and current state.