Scenic Journeys

Explore the real New Zealand on The Country Road. Set in rural Manawatu, The Country Road scenic routes and experiences takes you on journeys between the highways through rural landscapes.

These are journeys where off-the-beaten-track excursions allow you to discover hidden places and tucked away treasures ranging from convivial country cafes and pubs; heritage sites, galleries and gardens, to scenic reserves, day walks, swimming holes, glow-worm caves, picnic areas, and camping spots. Meet the locals, discover man-caves of fascinating collections and enjoy world-class scenery from the roadside.

The journey itself is an invitation to find that the middle of nowhere – the great New Zealand  – is actually the middle of somewhere. Within easy driving range, this ‘somewhere’ is well worth exploring.

Download  The Country Road – Manawatu’s Official Visitor Guide

Route Map – Scenic Journeys

Four interconnected routes make up The Country Road experience.

Manawatu Scenic Route

Travel through the picturesque Pohangina Valley and experience a whole new world of culture, heritage, activities and native bush. More info…

Peep-O-Day Touring Route

Aptly named after Peep-o-Day, which is the first place in northern Manawatu to see the morning sun, this scenic route cuts in off SH One and through sweeping valleys. More info…

Stormy Point Route

Named ‘after the Stormy Point lookout, where the views are phenomenal, stretching as far as Mt. Egmont and Mt. Ruapehu, and the West Coast. More info…