Forgotten World Highway

The Forgotten World Highway is a 150 km highway between Stratford and Taumarunui. It’s more than just a road linking one town to another, it’s a full experience, complete with heritage, and insights into history. The trip is windy, slightly mysterious and the views of unspoiled native bush are spectacular, it’s rare to find land so untouched by the modern world.

This secluded road has many noteworthy stops to take along the way. It winds over four mountain saddles, alongside Tangarakau gorge and through a 180 metre single lane tunnel. The Forgotten World Highway was opened in 1945 after 50 years in the making.

Your first notable stop is Strathmore Saddle, this is the first of the four saddles. On a clear day the view of all four mountains - Taranaki, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu are simply exquisite. You’ll find picnic tables here so if you’re planning a snack stop this one will offer you an unbelievable backdrop.

Pohokura Saddle is the next saddle on the trip. Named after a major Māori Chief, it offers another picturesque view of the lush green valley. Not far from here you will reach Whangamomona. This small township is full of character. Stop at the Whangamomona Hotel, the only place on the Forgotten World Highway where you can stop for a meal and a drink all year round. Whangamomona is a self appointed “republic”. In the late 1980’s local district boundaries were changed, half of
Whangamomona remained under Taranaki, the other half under Manawatu-Whanganui. The locals weren’t impressed so responded by declaring their independence. As you can imagine, the locals of Whangamomona possess a great sense of humour and don’t take themselves too seriously.

After a pleasant stop in Whangamomona, you’ll reach Tahora Saddle. The last saddle of the highway, it overlooks mountains, railway tunnels and three Māori Pa sites.

Continue on to the 180 metre long Moki Tunnel. Known by locals as “Hobbit’s Hole” the tunnel was built in the mid 1930’s. This is usually a child’s favourite part of the trip with it’s magical, novel nature. Not something you get to drive through everyday.

Hopefully you’re not in any hurry to complete the drive because Mt Damper Falls is a slight detour, 15 km down Moki Road. This stop will be absolutely worth your time. A 20 minute walk will take you to the North Island’s second highest waterfall (74 metres). Please note that access to the falls is via private farmland and the track is closed from 1 August - 31 October.

Once back on the highway, you’ll reach the Tangarakau Gorge section of the Forgotten World Highway, it is gravel road for 12 km so do drive with care.

Approximately fifteen kilometres before you reach Taumarunui, take the time to stop in at Lauren’s Lavender Farm. The relaxing surroundings of lavender fields and farmland are a nice place to stop before the end of your journey. During the summer months visit the cafe in an old converted farm house for a bite to eat and a coffee.

Taumarunui. The end of the Forgotten World Highway. This small town in the Ruapehu district is rich with Māori history and many local activities to keep you busy. However, they say it’s not about the destination, but the journey. The Forgotten World Highway certainly delivers an unforgettable journey, like none you will have taken before.