4WD Trails in Hawke's Bay
59 trails in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.
About Hawke's Bay
Hawke's Bay's 4WD scene ranges from the easy coastal Cape Kidnappers access to the Kaweka and Ruahine Ranges — serious back-country with river crossings and extended four-to-five day loops. The contrast within the region is sharp.
The Kaweka Forest Park and Ruahine Forest Park are both managed by DOC and have vehicle access tracks suited to competent 4WD drivers. The Heretaunga Plains fringe has farm tracks and forestry access. The coast south of Napier towards Cape Kidnappers is tide-dependent driving on a gannet colony access route.
Summer and autumn are the most reliable seasons. The Kaweka and Ruahine tracks can hold snow in July and August. River crossings in the ranges require careful checking after rainfall.
Popular trails in Hawke's Bay
Showing 49–59 of 59 trails
Marfletts Road
Tawapata Road
Tawapata Road
Ngatapa Road
Coppermine Road
Taharua Road
Tawapata Road
Cape Kidnappers Track
Coppermine Road
S Bend Road
Tipoki Road
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cape Kidnappers 4WD access tide-dependent?
Yes. Cape Kidnappers gannet colony vehicle access via the beach route operates within a tide window — entry and exit must be timed around low tide. The Department of Conservation and local tour operators publish a tide schedule. Out of tide season (approximately October through April for gannet viewing), beach access is restricted anyway. Check the Cape Kidnappers Reserve management page for current access rules.