Takaka Hill is an unforgettable drive in NZ
New Zealand, oceania
51.5 km
823 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, road trippers, buckle up for Takaka Hill! This mountain pass, also known as Pikikirunga Range, sits way up at 823m (2,700ft) in the Nelson Tasman region of New Zealand's South Island, separating Golden Bay from the more bustling Tasman Bay.
State Highway 60, or Takaka Hill Highway, is completely paved and clocks in at 51.5 km (32 miles) long, connecting the towns of Tākaka and Motueka. This twisty road first opened way back in 1888, and it’s been a must-do ever since!
The road's open 24/7, with traffic lights controlling one-way sections, and electronic signs keep you in the loop about any delays. The zig-zagging road isn’t too scary, but it's definitely steep and winding, with a whopping 257 corners, some of them hairpin turns! If you’re prone to motion sickness, be prepared. The road surface is in great condition and offers plenty of laybys for passing, but keep in mind, it’s a slow and steady drive. You'll encounter some steep sections reaching a maximum 13% gradient.
Allow about an hour for the drive without stops, but trust me, you’ll want to stop! The views are incredible, with panoramic vistas of Tasman Bay, Golden Bay, and Kahurangi National Park on clear days. Take a break at the summit to soak it all in! Plus, the area is known for its unique landscape, with amazing marble karst rock formations. This isn't just a drive; it's an experience!
Where is it?
Takaka Hill is an unforgettable drive in NZ is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -41.6792, 174.0211
Road Details
- Country
- New Zealand
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 51.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 823 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- -41.6792, 174.0211
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