🛑🚙 While this route is not officially recommended by NZTA or Waitomo Council, Taumatamaire Road bypasses the Awakino Gorge closure area entirely. Distance-wise, it’s practically the same as State Highway 3, but you can expect it to add at least 10–15 minutes to your journey due to its narrow, winding, and hilly layout with tight blind spots.
We recently drove the route with Cr Murray Chong to film the road from start to finish so you can see exactly what it entails (link in the comments below). It offers spectacular views of the mountain, sea, forests, pancake rocks and rolling rural countryside ⛰️🌊 (however the mountain and sea views were behind us, so not shown in the video - but still an interesting watch with all the other scenery and views. We may head out to film the opposite direction at some stage).
Waitomo Mayor John Robertson has suggested this route could serve as a backup when SH3 is closed due to slips. New Plymouth Mayor Max Brough is heading out there today to check it out firsthand.
⚠️ WARNING: This road was never designed for high-volume, two-way traffic. There’s an increased risk factor if you choose to take it, and it’s suited more for experienced 4WD users in its current form. Waitomo Council’s official guidance is that this road is recommended for local residents only during weather events and SH3 closures, as town cars and heavy vehicles can easily get stuck and block the locals from accessing their properties.
🤔 What do you think? Should this route be looked into as a potential alternative to Awakino Gorge during closures? Perhaps if it were sealed and limited to one direction at a time? Or are there better options out there? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below 👇
