Exploring the Remote Forgotten World Highway
The Forgotten World Highway, or State Highway 43, stretches 149 km from Taumarunui in the King Country to Stratford in Taranaki. This remote highway is one of New Zealand's most isolated major roads, with Whangamomona being the only town offering services along the route. The highway is known for its challenging terrain, featuring numerous hills and winding sections, and crosses several saddles at elevations between 300 and 400 metres.
Scenic Journey from Taumarunui
Starting in Taumarunui, the highway initially follows the Whanganui River. Along this section, you can enjoy a rainforest walk at Te Maire. The road then meanders through a series of farmed valleys before ascending to the Paparata Saddle. As you continue, the landscape becomes more rugged, with the road turning to a metal surface as it passes through the Tangarakau Gorge. Notable sights include the frequently photographed Moki Tunnel, a short walk at Morgans Grave, and the gorge itself.
Side Trips and Hidden Gems
If time permits, consider taking side trips to explore more of the area's natural beauty. Moki Road and Mangapapa Road lead to the impressive 73-metre-high Mount Damper Falls. Additionally, there are dead-end roads that venture to remote farms and stations. This includes the curiously named Bridge to Somewhere, a counterpoint to the Bridge to Nowhere on the Whanganui River
Challenging Terrain and Whangamomona
Beyond the Moki Tunnel, the highway navigates a series of steep, erosion-prone hills, crossing several saddles. Be sure to allocate time for lunch at the pub in Whangamomona, a town with its own unique charm and history.
Teh final stage of the trip exits the rugged hills and saddles near the small township of Douglas in Taranaki, offering an almost picture-postcard perspective of green, pastoral New Zealand.
How to Get There
To begin your journey on the Forgotten World Highway, head to Taumarunui, which is accessible via State Highway 4. From Auckland, it is a 3.5-hour drive, 282 km. From there, follow the signs for State Highway 43. Alternatively, you can start in Stratford, Taranaki, and travel in the opposite direction.
