The Forgotten World Highway

Driving Route and Rail Carts

The Forgotten World Highway

At some 150 kilometres long, the Forgotten World Highway or State highway 43 is a highly memorable driving journey.

Built on colonial bridle paths formed in the late 19th century, the highway is remote, hugs the contours of the land and takes you back in time to a forgotten world. The highway wriggles its way over four mountain saddles, through an eerie one-lane tunnel and along a sinuous river gorge.  Fifteen kilometres of the road is unsealed gravel, and the only significant settlement on the way is Whangamomona, where the historic hotel is known for its hospitality.

The Forgotten World Rail Trail

Forgotten World Adventures provides self-driven RailCart tours and RailBike tours along the decommissioned railway line of the Forgotten World Highway. Learn of a history unique to New Zealand and share a story and experience that belongs to everyone.

Nestled within the deep hidden valleys of New Zealand’s Forgotten World is the ultimate way to explore rural New Zealand. Travel along a decommissioned railway line, through tunnels, over bridges and rivers and to townships that time forgot. Forgotten World Adventures shares a history unique to New Zealand. It’s truly unforgettable.

Choose to travel a segment of the line, or the entire 142 kilometres. RailCart tours depart during the summer months of October through to May from three locations,Taumarunui, in the heart of the King Country; Stratford, in the heart of Taranaki and the self proclaimed Republic of Whangamomona.

For a more active journey, choose our new RailBike tour and pedal your way through history or even return by jet boat!

Why not do what others do and enjoy the best of both worlds with a Forgotten World Experience combined with an authentic farm stay with Fernleaf Farmstay Bed and Breakfast.

For more information see Forgotten World Adventures or contact us to talk bout your options.