Rainbow rd or Acheron rd

[rogerramjet]

Looking at taking the family form Hanmer springs through to Blenheim on Monday (unable to do the loop trip as heading to Westport from Blenheim) Which would be the better option e.g. rainbow road or Acheron road (have a standard Prado). Which option have people found to be more enjoyable? How challenging is the rainbow rd (not wanting anything to adventurous)
Thanks

[Macca]

At this time of year both roads are really just shingle roads. Not much adventure in them. Great scenery on both. Personally i would do acheron to get to Blenheim as wouldn't be doubling back so much. Could always do the loop then head to Westport from hanmer or save the rainbow for a winter trip.

[imsohi]

Are you stopping in blenheim?? if not i would be taking the Rainbow road will cut out 2.5 hours travelling as i comes out in Lake Rotoiti 1 hour into your trip from blenheim to westport, you cound then do the Porika and braeburn tracks which will get you to murcherson. if you take Archeon Road you will some out south of blenheim on the blenheim to chch road. if your staying in blenheim this would be the better route as it would save back tracking. as for terrain from what i have heard they are pretty easy going never done them. your Prado should be sweet

[rogerramjet]

Thanks for the replies. We are actually staying at Tennyson inlet (malbourgh sounds) for a few days before heading to Westport. might just have to decide on the day.
What are the Porika and Braeburn tracks like? How much extra time would it add to the journey to Murchison?