Ridge Road South

Ridge Road South offers 4WD enthusiasts an intriguing short route near the Tararua District that rewards explorers willing to venture off the beaten path. This half-kilometre trail presents an accessible introduction to off-road driving in the Manawatū-Whanganui region, making it ideal for those building their skills or testing vehicle capabilities on varied terrain.

You'll find yourself navigating through diverse landscape features that showcase what this rural area has to offer. The gentle grades mean you won't face extreme technical challenges, allowing you to focus on line selection and vehicle control while enjoying the surrounding countryside. The compact length makes this a quick adventure, perfect for combining with other nearby routes or fitting into a day trip itinerary.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good working order and carry essential supplies including water, a first aid kit, and communication devices—standard precautions for any off-road outing. While this trail presents no severe obstacles, weather conditions can impact track quality, so check local conditions beforehand. The lack of previous tracked data means you're helping build the Newtracs community record, so consider logging your journey when you complete it. This short route serves as an excellent waypoint for exploring the broader backcountry possibilities in the Tararua area.