Fodor's Expert Review Whanganui River Road

For a little slice of New Zealand, take a scenic and historic drive along the river's lower reaches by following the Whanganui River Road from the city of Whanganui. Turn left off State Highway 4 15 minutes north of the city. The narrow rural road follows the river for 79 km (49 miles) north, as far as Pipiriki. It passes several small villages and historic sites (ask a local before venturing into any traditional Māori villages). Interpretive signs are progressively being added along the route to help visitors uderstand what they are looking at. Be sure to keep left, drive slowly, and watch for wandering livestock.