Leatherwood Road

You'll discover a challenging short route in the Hastings District that rewards bold drivers with steep terrain and genuine backcountry character. Leatherwood Road offers an intense driving experience compressed into just 0.7 km, making it perfect for those seeking concentrated technical challenge rather than lengthy exploration. The 14% grade demands respect and proper vehicle setup—this isn't a casual cruise, and you should come prepared with appropriate 4WD capability and recovery equipment.

The landscape surrounding this route showcases the raw, undulating terrain typical of Hawke's Bay's rural reaches. You'll navigate through steep sections that test both your vehicle's traction and your driving skill, with limited room for error on the narrower portions. The scenery reflects working farmland and native vegetation, providing an authentic sense of remote backcountry driving far from polished tourist routes.

Before attempting Leatherwood Road, ensure your vehicle is in excellent mechanical condition with quality tyres and properly functioning four-wheel drive systems. Check local conditions beforehand, as grade and weather can significantly impact driveability. With zero previous Newtracs user logs, you'll be blazing a fresh trail—bring a recovery plan and don't underestimate the steep sections. This compact but uncompromising route suits experienced off-road drivers looking for technical challenge in an intimate package.