The Forgotten World Highway is one of New Zealand’s most atmospheric road trips — a place where time slows down and the landscape feels unchanged for generations. Cutting through deep river valleys, dense native bush, and isolated hill country, this route links old railway lines, pioneer settlements, and forgotten corners of the North Island.
This journey sits mainly across the inland heart of Manawatū-Whanganui and the western edge of Taranaki, passing through rugged King Country backcountry along the way.
Welcome to the Forgotten World Highway - State Highway 43
Jump to a Day
Day 1 — Taumarunui River Gateway
Day 2 — Whangamōmona Backcountry Roads
Day 3 — Forgotten Valleys to Taranaki Maunga
Day 1: Taumarunui — River Gateway and Rail Adventure
River journeys and Historic Rail Exploration
Start in Taumarunui, a river town rich in Māori history and the meeting point of the Whanganui and Ongarue Rivers, making it the ideal launch pad for river exploration.
Ease into the journey with coffee at Kai Nui Eatery and Coffee Cart before taking on the local Sunshine Track, or heading deeper inland on a day trip, or a multi day adventire on the Whanganui River.
A trip down the Wanganui River - by boat, kayak or canoe - is a must
Don’t miss:
- Forgotten World Rail Cart Experience
- Whanganui River Jet Boat Tour
- The Whanganui Journey - a New Zealand ‘Great Walk’
- Timber Trail cycling
- Blue Duck Station
Day 2: Taumarunui to Whangamōmona — Backcountry Passage
Quirky Isolation and Backcountry Roads
Start the morning with breakfast and a garden walk at Bradley's Gardens, before contiuuing on to Lauren’s Lavender Farm — a lovely spot to browse fragrant gifts and stroll among peaceful lavender gardens. Another worthwhile stop is the Nukunuku Museum, a fascinating collection of local memorabilia and historic treasures from the region.
Mount Damper Falls is one of the highest in the North Island
Continue your journey with a side trip along Moki Road to the spectacular Mount Damper Falls, where water plunges 85 metres into the forest below.
The route then passes through the famous Moki Tunnel, a narrow hand-carved passage steeped in history.
The best way to explore the rich history of the regions is with Forgotten World Adventures
Another quick detour awaits. with a visit the old Stratford-Okahukura Line and tunnel, a piece of the regions rich rail history and best explored as a day trip with Forgotten World Adventures.
From there, it’s an easy drive to Whangamōmona, your overnight destination. Full of character, this small settlement famously declared itself an independent republic in 1989, and visitors can even collect a novelty passport stamp along with your evening meal at the famous Whangamōmona Hotel.
Grab a passport stamp with your dinner at the Whangamōmona Hotel
If you happen to visit in January, you may catch Whangamōmona on its Republic Day — a lively celebration featuring the election of a new president, with past winners including a goat, a sheep, and even a dog!
Don’t miss:
Overnight at the Whangamomona Camping Ground
Day 3: Whangamōmona to Stratford — Forgotten Valleys to Taranaki Maunga
Changing Landscapes, Forgotten History, and Volcanic Scenery
Continue south through some of the most remote and scenic stretches of the Forgotten World Highway, where winding roads cut through native bush, saddles, and isolated farming valleys.
Stop at the Whangamōmona Saddle Lookout , where sweeping views stretch across the surrounding countryside. If you’re keen for a longer break, a three-hour loop walk begins here and offers an excellent way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Further along at Strathmore, stop in for an easy detour and see the Makahu Tunnel.
If you're after, a longer, quirkier stop off, you can turn off at Strathmore for a visit to the “Bridge to Somewhere” — a playful nod to the well-known "Bridge to Nowhere" in Whanganui National Park.
The town of Stratford draws inspiration from the English hometown of William Shakespeare, with many streets named after famous literary characters. One of the town’s standout attractions is the glockenspiel clock tower, which performs scenes from Romeo and Juliet several times throughout the day.
Known as the gateway to Taranaki Maunga, Stratford is the perfect base for exploring the wider Taranaki region. From dramatic coastlines and renowned surf beaches to vibrant arts, welcoming hospitality, and excellent local food at places like Ourr Place, Colonel Malone's, and Fenton Street Arts Collective and Distillery.
The Stratford Glockenspiel Clock Tower
In Stratford, Shakespeare-themed street names, heritage buildings, and the famous glockenspiel clock tower give the town its unique identity.
Don’t miss:
- Whangamōmona Saddle Lookout
- Stratford–Okahukura railway formations
- Bridge to Somewhere walk at Strathmore
- Tangarakau Gorge
- Stratford Glockenspiel Clock Tower
- Taranaki Maunga viewpoints
A Road Trip You Won't Forget
The Forgotten World Highway stretches for 150 km between Stratford and Taumarunui, offering far more than a simple drive between destinations. Rich in history and heritage, this scenic route delivers a journey filled with character, stories, and unforgettable landscapes. Winding through remote countryside and dense native bush, the road has a rugged, almost mysterious feel, with long stretches of untouched scenery that feel worlds away from modern life.
Along the way, travellers are treated to sweeping views, quiet historic settlements, and a rare glimpse into one of New Zealand’s most unspoiled regions.
