A road like no other
The Desert Road (State Highway 1 between Waiouru and Tūrangi) is one of New Zealand’s most striking drives — a 60-kilometre ribbon of tarmac crossing the Rangipo Desert and sitting in the shadow of the Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu volcanoes. On a clear day, the mountain views are spectacular; on a moody one, the mist rolls low across the plains, and the landscape takes on a lunar feel.
The change in scenery is dramatic. One moment you’re leaving farmland and forest; the next, the land opens wide — stripped back to rock, sand, and sky. It’s the kind of drive where you find yourself pulling over just to take it all in. Houston, this doesn’t look like New Zealand.
Moments worth stopping for
There are no official lookouts, but plenty of safe pull-over bays and picnic spots along the way — simple roadside clearings with room to stop, breathe, and grab a photo. From almost anywhere, Mount Ruapehu dominates the skyline, especially in winter when it’s dusted with snow.
Sunrise brings warm hues over the tussock, and dusk turns the whole plateau amber and blue. Each season has its own vibe: crisp and white in winter, clear and wide-open in summer.
