Jenkins Road

You'll discover a hidden gem in Southland with Jenkins Road, a short but intriguing 4WD route near the Tuatapere Te Waewae Community. This compact 0.7 km trail offers an excellent opportunity to explore the rugged backcountry character of the region, making it ideal for those seeking to venture beyond mainstream tourist routes. The gentle terrain provides accessible driving for various skill levels, allowing you to focus on the surrounding landscape rather than technical challenges.

As you navigate Jenkins Road, you'll experience the raw beauty of Southland's countryside, with native vegetation and open vistas typical of this remote area. The flat grade means you can concentrate on smooth driving technique and enjoying the peaceful isolation that these rural routes offer. While short, the trail serves as a perfect entry point for 4WD exploration in the region or a quick detour when exploring nearby Tuatapere.

Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good condition for unsealed road driving, and check local conditions as rural routes can be affected by weather. Bring supplies and inform others of your travel plans, as this remote location has limited services nearby. Using the Newtracs app to locate and navigate this trail ensures you can find your way confidently through the backcountry and discover other routes in the area worth exploring.