It forms part of the southernmost of the east–west roads crossing the South Island (via Haast Pass).

As Chain Hills Highway, it begins in Omarama and passes through most of the settlement in an easterly direction.

After Otematata, the road then passes along the southern banks of Lakes Aviemore and Waitaki as well as their respective dams.

The road emerges on the upper Waitaki River floodplain and enters the township of Kurow.

Beyond Kurow, the road is all but flat and runs along the southern flanks of the floodplains as well as through Duntroon and Georgetown before crossing a low saddle to descend into Pukeuri.