I will echo the other review, this is a very nice road to ride, especially for the North Island. I rented a motorcycle and rode along this section of road, and enjoyed it very much.
XVS650This is arguably one of the best rides in Aotearoa/NZ. Definitely one of the best in Te Ika A Maui/North Island (Im a local, trust me). Its a wee ways to get to either Whakatane or Gisborne from Auckland (main international), but worth it. Most roads in NZ are windy and made for bikes, but this East Cape route is pristine, sweeping bends, tight corners, near zero traffic (except a little in Dec/Jan holidays) and huge ocean views. You can return via Waioeka Gorge to make a loop from either city, but I prefer the coastal route. Fuel in Omaio only so gas up in the city and enjoy.
Wheke