Discovering the Forgotten World Highway: Your first road trip into New Zealand’s best-kept secrets
The Great New Zealand Road Trip. You’ve heard of it, you’ve probably even been on one. Most travellers will flock to the usual suspects – Queenstown, Rotorua, The Coromandel. But if this isn’t your style or you would rather avoid the tourist trails, then this one is for you.
In the heart of the North Island lies the Forgotten World Highway (Or Highway 43 for those map folks out there). Running for 155km between Taumarunui and Stratford, it’s New Zealand’s oldest heritage trail that passes through tunnels, remote hills and even an independent republic (yes, seriously).
The highway links the central North Island with Taranaki and lazily winds its way through classic kiwi farmland and blink-or-you-miss-it towns, giving you a glimpse into the quieter, quirkier side of New Zealand. In fact, The Forgotten Highway is one of the few roads in the country where you can go a full hour without seeing another car. Perfect for reconnecting with the road and disconnecting from the real world.
Whether you are exploring the road on a three hour scenic drive or a three day weekend adventure, here are some of the must see sights and important things to remember when you travel The Forgotten Highway.
1. Whangamōmona – NZ’s Self-Proclaimed Republic
First settled in 1895, this bustling frontier town was the transport link that serviced the hardy farming community that surrounded it. In 1989, as a protest against boundary changes, the town proudly declared itself the Republic of Whangamōmona, complete with its own presidential election and passports. If you find yourself in town in January, you might be lucky enough to catch Republic Day, a lively event held every two years featuring goat races, gumboot throwing, and presidential elections (past presidents have included a goat and a poodle).
2. Moki Tunnel
Known by the locals at the Hobbit’s Hole, the Moki Tunnel was built in the 1930s and cuts straight through solid rock. The single-lane 180 meter long tunnel is home to fossilised giant crabs with a timber gabled roof and handcarved walls. The tunnel’s floor was lowered in 1985 to increase the roof height to 7m and is truly like stepping into another world. Keep your headlights on and let your imagination run wild.
3. The Saddles
The Forgotten World Highway includes four saddles. Each saddle offers a different view and has its own unique history. Strathmore saddle offers stunning views of Mt Taranaki and the Central Plateau. The Pohokura saddle, named after a prominent Māori Chief, provides views into the valley once used as a large railway construction campsite. Whangamōmona saddle offers panoramic views of the rural landscape with a backdrop of beech and podocarp forest. The Tahora saddle offers remarkable views of ancient Māori pā sites, railway tunnels and the central North Island mountains. It is worth stopping at the top of each saddle to take in the view or even enjoy a picnic lunch.
4. Mt Damper Falls
For a break from the car, why not explore the second highest waterfall in the North Island. A 14km detour off Moki Road and a short 30min walk takes you to Mt Damper Falls. Surrounded by native bush and falling 74 meters, this waterfall is truly a sight to behold, especially after heavy rain. August 1st to October 31st is lambing season, so keep an eye out for any new Spring Lambs as you make your way to the falls. Remember to always give the lambs plenty of space and watch where you step!
For more ideas, we recommend checking these links out:
https://www.newzealand.com/nz/feature/forgotten-world-highway/
https://www.taranaki.co.nz/visit/itinerary-ideas/exploring-the-forgotten-world
Tips for Driving the Forgotten World Highway
- Fuel up before you go: There are very few petrol stations along the route, so make sure your tank is full before leaving Taumarunui or Stratford.
- Check the weather: Parts of the road are unsealed, and conditions can be tricky in wet weather. The roads are also mostly rural so they are best tackled in daylight and ideally not in a rush.
- Check your rental car agreement: Some rental car companies won’t let you drive on unsealed roads or will charge extra for insurance. If you are allowed to drive unsealed roads, always remember to be cautious, watch your speed and take it slow. Check out info on Ezi Car’s Insurance & Coverage Policies here.
- Road Closures: Highway 43 is currently undergoing upgrades to make the road safer and more accessible. Check out the driving conditions and plan your journey on the NZTA Journey Planner and view the latest project updates for SH43 here.
- Take it slow: This isn’t a trip to rush. Allow a full day, or even better, stay overnight in Whangamōmona or nearby lodges to soak it all in.
- Watch for livestock: You’ll likely share the road with sheep, cattle, and maybe even wild goats. Keep your camera ready and your speed down.
- Stock up on snacks: Your car isn’t the only thing needing fuel! Make sure you have plenty of snacks and water on hand while you are exploring.
So, whether you are a curious traveller wanting to avoid the crowds, a photographer and nature lover, a Kiwi re-exploring your own backyard or just someone with the taste for the unusual, we say skip the obvious and take the long way around along The Forgotten Highway. This journey isn’t about ticking off bucket list items, it’s about experiencing the side of New Zealand that doesn’t make it onto the glossy brochures. It’s raw. It’s real. And with Ezi Car Rental, you’ve got the freedom to explore on your own schedule.
Stay tuned for the next edition of our Hidden Gem series, where we map out another secret side of New Zealand.
