From Waitomo to Ohakune following the North Island Main Trunk Railway

Experience a relaxing, sunny journey through the heart of the North Island. This long-form drive takes you south from the iconic Waitomo region—home of the famous "Big Apple"—all the way down toward Ohakune, where you'll find the giant "Big Carrot."For the majority of this route, the road mirrors the historic North Island Main Trunk (NIMT) railway. Built through some of New Zealand’s most challenging terrain, the NIMT is a masterpiece of early 20th-century engineering. As you watch, you’ll notice how the road and rail lines converge and diverge, weaving together through lush farmland and rugged landscapes, tracing the path that has connected Auckland and Wellington by train since 1908.Enjoy the rhythm of the road, the shifting scenery of the central plateau, and the transition from one iconic Kiwi landmark to the next.