Discovering the Taihape–Napier Road
The 140 km long Taihape - Napier Road (also known as Gentle Annie Road) is one of New Zealand’s most scenic and remote driving routes, connecting the central North Island town of Taihape to the east coast city of Napier in Hawke Bay. This area has a sense of timelessness, passing between the Kaweka Range to the north and the Ruahine Range to the south. There are no towns, few houses, and almost no cell phone coverage; just the road, the hills, and the weather. It’s a place where you can feel the scale and isolation of the inland North Island, with little interruption from modern life.
The Plateau on Taihape–Napier Road
On the west side of the ranges, you'll come across a striking, unnamed plateau that captures the imagination with its vast openness and intense greenery. Despite its high altitude, over 900 metres above sea level, the landscape is surprisingly green, a reflection of the region’s unique climate and volcanic soil.
The elevation means the weather here can be unpredictable. Cold southerlies and biting westerly winds are common, and snow is not unheard of in Winter. Yet on clear days, the reward is immense: sweeping views of the central plateau, with Mount Ruapehu on the western horizon.
From Pack Tracks to Scenic Drive
The Taihape–Napier Road has its roots in 19th-century stock routes and packhorse tracks. Originally established by Māori, the route was adapted by early European settlers and drovers moving sheep and cattle between inland Rangitīkei and Hawke’s Bay. The route traverses rugged hill country, deep river valleys, and remote sheep stations. It was a rugged, unsealed road prone to slips and closures, earning a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most challenging drives.
Known locally as "Gentle Annie", an ironic nickname referencing one of its steepest sections, the road was gradually upgraded over the decades. It remained mostly gravel until the early 2000s, when a major sealing project transformed it into a fully paved road. This upgrade opened the route to more, making it an option for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track driving experience.
Today, while still remote and rarely busy, the road is far more accessible and a hidden gem for those exploring the central North Island by car or motorcycle.
Drive Time and Route Details
The full drive between Taihape and Napier takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on conditions and how often you stop to take in the views. The road winds through isolated hill country, narrow gorges, and expansive farmland, with few services along the way. Drivers are advised to fuel up before leaving Taihape or Napier, as there are no petrol stations or shops en route. Keep an eye out for wild goats, falcons, and seasonal changes in vegetation, which shift from vivid green in spring to golden hues in autumn.
Along the route, there are several places to stop and explore, including hiking tracks. A particularly interesting option is the Blowhard Bush, managed by Forest and Bird. Further to the west is Kuripapango, with a DOC campsite and a hiking track to the top of Mount Kuripapango.
At the western end of the plateau, the road connects with State Highway 1, Heading south takes you toward Taihape, a rural service town nestled in the Rangitīkei region. Known for its quirky gumboot-throwing competition and cafes, Taihape makes a good rest stop or overnight option.
Alternatively, turning northwest brings you to Waiouru, a small army town. Waiouru is home to the National Army Museum. It sits at the southern edge of the Desert Road and Mount Ruapehu. From there, you can head to Tongariro National Park via Ohakune or to Lake Taupo
