New Zealand’s first heritage trail the ‘Forgotten World Highway’ stretches through Eastern Taranaki. At 148 km long it’s perfect for a driving or cycling journey along the scenic landscape from Stratford through to Taumaranui.
The highway boasts kilometres of unspoilt sub-tropical rain forests including the beech ridge-tops of the Whangamomona Saddle and the Tangarakau Gorge.
There are about 20 different sites situated along the Forgotten Highway which offer a peak into the region’s heritage. Some of these sites include disused coal mines, riverboat landings and Whangamomona Village, a small, historic village famous for it’s claim as a ‘republic’ of New Zealand.
The route crosses four saddles, runs through the Moki Tunnel, follows the Whanganui River for 20km and runs alongside an abandoned railway line. There’s no shortage of spectacular natural and historic scenery on this gorgeous highway through Eastern Taranaki.
