Wainui Road connects Raglan to its famous western surf beaches, Ngarunui Beach, Manu Bay, and Whale Bay. It is short at 8.3 km but very scenic. It starts by following, then crossing, one of the tidal inlets for Whaingaroa Harbour and then continues towards the coast with great views of Mount Karioi. After passing the access road to Ngarunui Beach, it climbs the steep coastal hills around the northeast end of Mount Karioi, with interspersed areas of farmland and native forest regrowth. There are several fabulous viewpoints, including a parking area next to the entrance to Manu Bay and an easy-to-miss rest area 200 metres before Whale Bay.
After Whale Bay, the road becomes Whaanga Road, gravelled and even windier with narrow sections, often surrounded by regenerating forest. It is a slow drive for the 14 km to the Ruapuke Beach campground and access road. You can stop halfway for the fantastic view at Te Toto Gorge (10 minutes) or a hike up Mout Karioi Track (4 to 5 hours return).
