4x4 & Adventure
Sand Driving: An Exciting Off-Road Adventure
Ninety Mile Beach, Pouto Lighthouse, Muriwai, Kariotahi, Hokio … and the list goes on for sandy adventures in Aotearoa, and that’s just the North Island so far! Let’s face it, kiwis love a good beach … and a wild one too! Whether you’re fishing, swimming, surfing or camping, driving on sand presents unique challenges that require specific preparations, techniques, and tools that differ from other driving environments.
Master the Art of Sand Driving
Tips & Techniques for Sand Driving
- Adjust Tyre Pressure: Lower tyres to 15-20 PSI for better flotation on sand. Keep a deflator, gauge, and air compressor handy.
- Engage 4WD: Use 4WD High for traction and avoid sudden movements to maintain control.
- Keep Momentum: Drive steadily to avoid bogging down; avoid abrupt stops and starts.
- Follow Tracks: Use compacted paths left by other vehicles to gain better traction.
- Smooth Turns: Turn wide and steady to avoid digging into soft sand.
- Stop Smart: Only stop on flat or downhill areas to avoid difficult restarts.
Master the Art of Sand Recovery
Essential Recovery Gear for Sand Driving
- Recovery Tracks: Provide traction for stuck tyres.
- Shovel: Useful for digging out tyres or clearing obstacles.
- Snatch Strap: A must-have for pulling out bogged vehicles.
- Recovery Points: Ensure your vehicle has rated points for secure towing.
- Air Compressor: Reinflates tyres after finishing your sand drive.
- Pressure Gauge: Helps monitor and adjust tyre PSI.
- Winch: Ideal for self-recovery in remote areas.
Know How Guides:
Find out some of the main reasons to use a handheld UHF radio in this Know How, made with help from our friends at GME.
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A winch is one of the most essential pieces of recovery equipment a 4x4 enthusiast can add to their vehicle. Find out how to install a winch quickly and easily with this Know How.
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Lengthy road trips are always a great adventure, but when things go wrong, you'll want to be as prepared as possible.
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ExiTrax Recovery Boards
Designed in Australia, made in New Zealand and tested on some of our toughest tracks and surface conditions, these recovery tracks will get you unstuck in a myriad of track conditions and surface types – especially when you’re out on the tracks alone. Shop ExiTrax for a range of models to suit all sizes of 4WD vehicle
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MaxiTrac Tyre Deflator
Is a reliable, easy-to-use tool designed for precise control over your tyre pressure. Essential for sand driving, reducing tyre pressure enhances traction and prevents your vehicle from sinking into soft terrain. Compact and durable, the MaxiTrac tyre deflator helps you adjust PSI quickly and accurately, ensuring optimal performance for your 4WD on any off-road adventure.
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