Between Taihape at the southern end of the Central Plateau to Napier winds a 150km long highway known as the Gentle Annie.
The drive is stunning, flanked by mountain ranges and ever changing views. There is also some lovely walks to explore along the way!
- Blowhard Bush - a 63 ha forest which grows amongst karst limestone creating beautiful rock formations. Walks vary from half hour - 2.5 hours
- Lawrence Road to Lotkow Road - cross the bridge and follow the track uphill through kanuka fores, or take the Mackintosh track to the plateau to enjoy incredible views.
- The Lakes - Kuripapango - Pass through kanuka and hardwood forest for roughly 30 minutes to enjoy small lakes with ecological and botanical significance.
- Mt Kuripapango - climb the zig zag track fro 2-3 hours to reach the summit of Mt Kuripapango (1250m elevation).
- Lakes carpark via Mackintosh Hut - climb through kanuka and beech forests over several ridges, before following the stream to reach the Mackintosh Hut.