Riverton to Tuatapere: SH99

SH 99, Orawia Road · Riverton → Tuatapere

Leisurely30 mi1 hr900 ft climbHigh point ≈ 200 ftOne way

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The drive

State Highway 99 runs west from Riverton along the south coast to Tuatapere, 47 km (29 mi), part of the Southern Scenic Route. After Riverton it crosses the Aparima River and passes Colac Bay, skirting the Longwood Range, then runs through Orepuki to Te Waewae Bay.

The road follows the coast with sea views, shingle and sand bays, and then the Waiau River, which it crosses at Tuatapere. Curves are mostly gentle, and the drive takes about 1 hr.

SH99 continues beyond Tuatapere to Clifden, but this drive finishes in the town.

Along the way

Riverton
Colac Bay
Orepuki
Tuatapere

Elevation

900 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 200 ft

RivertonTuatapere

Curves

Mostly gentle curves

RivertonTuatapere

GentleHairpins

Good to know

SH99 is a freight and logging route, so expect trucks.
The drive ends at Tuatapere; SH99 continues to Clifden.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check NZTA Journey Planner: highway conditions.

Questions about this drive

How long does Riverton to Tuatapere take on SH99?

Riverton to Tuatapere on SH99 is 47 km (29 mi) and takes about 1 hr.

Is SH99 part of the Southern Scenic Route?

Yes, the whole of State Highway 99 is part of the Southern Scenic Route.

Is the Riverton to Tuatapere road twisty?

No. SH99 has mostly gentle curves along the south coast.

What is on the Riverton to Tuatapere drive?

Colac Bay, Orepuki and Te Waewae Bay, then the Waiau River crossing at Tuatapere.

What you get in the app

Turn by turn, on this roadSpoken directions along the exact route. Carve never reroutes you onto a faster one.

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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