Jollies Pass Road

Jollies Pass Road is a rugged, high-country gravel road that climbs over the Amuri Range between Hanmer Springs and the Molesworth Station. It's a thrilling drive for 4WD enthusiasts, mountain bikers, and anyone craving expansive alpine views and a sense of remote wilderness. The road itself is an adventure, with steep gradients, loose surfaces, and dramatic scenery that feels a world away from the spa town below.

Highlights & What to See

• Panoramic Alpine Views: From the saddle, soak in sweeping vistas of the Inland Kaikōura Range, the Hanmer Basin, and the vast Molesworth Station – New Zealand's largest farm.
• Molesworth Station: At the northern end, the historic Cob Cottage and the open landscape of this working high-country station offer a glimpse into the region's pastoral history.
• Walking and Biking: The road is part of the St James Cycle Trail – a challenging section best tackled on a mountain bike. For walkers, the Jollies Pass Track provides a shorter but steep tramp to the saddle.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wild horses, hawks, and the occasional falcon soaring above the tussock-covered hills.
• Seasonal Wildflowers: In spring and summer, the hillsides are dotted with bright yellow mountain broom and other alpine flowers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for a full day if you're driving from Hanmer Springs to Molesworth Station and back, including stops for photos and short walks. The road is rough and slow – allow 1–2 hours each way for the 30 km gravel stretch. Cyclists should allocate 4–6 hours for the return trip, depending on fitness. Note that the road is typically open only from late spring to early autumn (November to April); check conditions before you go, as weather can close it abruptly.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs: Start or end your adventure with a soak in the famous thermal pools or a stroll through the village's cafés and shops.
• Molesworth Station: Continue north to explore this vast high-country station, with its historic homestead and scenic drives through the Clarence Valley.
• Kaikōura: A scenic 90-minute drive east from Hanmer Springs offers whale watching, dolphin encounters, and the stunning Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge & the Waiau River: A great spot for fishing, kayaking, or a picnic along the turquoise river before heading into the hills.
• Hanmer Forest Park: For easier hiking and mountain biking trails, explore the forest tracks near the village.

Please check official sources for current details.