DAY 1 - 1300 // Just two minutes off SH1, pull into Awastone, a riverside haven for an afternoon on the river. Book a cabin, or powered site for your motorhome. If you’re lucky, it’s a Sunday and you can enjoy a drink, some hearty food and stunning riverside atmosphere along with live music with their “Sunday Sessions”.

DAY 2 - 0900 // After breakfast make a start on Day Two’s adventure and drive to Rangiwahia Hut Track trail head for a rewarding intermediate tramp into the Ruahine Ranges (3–4-hour return). Enjoy a packed lunch at the DOC hut located at the summit. 1400 // Check in to The Woodshed, (just 3kms down the road) or, if you still have energy, enjoy a slow exploration of the nearby Ian McKean Pinetum first. The Woodshed offers an outdoor hut tub, and views for miles for a truly restorative evening. 1800 // Make use of the cooking facilities here or take a 15-minute drive to Āpiti Tavern & Eatery for melt-in-your-mouth, slow-barbequed meats and a taste of country hospitality.

DAY 3 - 0900 // Enjoy a wander around Mangahuia Wetlands for a pretty morning stroll, and to spot some local wildlife. 1100 // For garden lovers, head to Kimbolton for two stunning park gardens in Cross Hills Gardens and Heritage Park. These gardens are bursting with rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and specimen trees. For those less interested in gardens, take a detour to Limestone Creek Reserve instead, for a lush mossy creek and glow worm caves (waterproof footwear is essential. Avoid after heavy rain or extreme weather). 1300 // Lunch at charming Hansen’s Cafe before continuing on to Feilding and beyond!

TOP TIPS TO GET THE WHEELS TURNING //

• The Country Road map is available online, or at most isites and airports for a more DIY itinerary approach.
• A road trip is no good without a decent playlist. Check out local DJ - D Fresh’s playlist which was built specifically for these roads.