Hales Road

You'll discover Hales Road offers a chance to explore the rural back routes near Whanganui District, where genuine off-road driving awaits without the crowds of more established tracks. This 2.1 km route takes you through authentic farmland terrain, providing an intimate experience of North Island's countryside and a genuine sense of adventure for those seeking less-travelled paths.

The driving experience is straightforward, with gentle grades that make this accessible for various skill levels and vehicle types. You'll traverse pastoral landscapes that showcase the region's agricultural character, with natural sections that reveal the area's undeveloped beauty. The relatively short distance means you can complete this route as part of a larger exploration day, combining it with other nearby tracks to maximize your off-road experience.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good working order and carry essential supplies—this is rural terrain where services are limited. While the grades won't challenge experienced drivers, the unmapped nature of many local routes means GPS navigation and local knowledge are valuable assets. Check current conditions beforehand, as seasonal weather can affect track accessibility in this region. Using the Newtracs app, you can log your experience and help build the community knowledge about this trail.