Old Coach Road

The Old Coach Road traces the original 1870s stagecoach route over the Rimutaka Range, connecting Wellington region with the Wairarapa through native forest and railway heritage sites. This gravel track follows the abandoned Rimutaka Incline railway formation, passing massive concrete viaducts, old railway tunnels, and the famous Siberia cutting where Fell locomotives once hauled carriages up impossible grades. The Cross Creek section requires careful navigation around washouts and steep drop-offs where the original road clings to the mountainside.

Suitable for any high-clearance vehicle in good conditions, though wet weather turns clay sections into skating rinks. The track operates year-round but winter brings ice and limited daylight for the 3-4 hour journey. No permits required and good cell coverage near both ends. Several DOC camping areas along the route provide overnight options. This is New Zealand transport history you can actually drive, with stunning Wairarapa valley views and enough railway relics to satisfy any heritage enthusiast.