Desert Road

The ominous sounding 'Desert Road' is basically the rugged part of State Highway 1. Should you be lucky enough to journey through this part of New Zealand be prepared for vast stretches of unhospitable land, mountains and volcanoes. Beginning south of Turangi, the region is largely uninhabited, bar the Waiouru army base, miles and miles of pylons and Rangipo prison farm.

The highway crosses the North Island Volcanic Plateau and the Rangipo Desert. Drivers and passengers are treated to 'Lord of The Rings' scenery with spectacular views of the three volcanoes Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu.

From Waiouru the Desert Road descends to Taihape and Mangaweka.