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Forgotten World Highway

Scenic Route · North Island

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Outdooractive Editors

/ On State Highway 43
Photo: itravelNZ® - New Zealand in your pocket™, CC BY, flickr.com
/ Forgotten World Highway
Photo: Pavel Špindler, CC BY, Wikimedia Commons
/ The hinterland of New Zealand
Photo: Pavel Špindler, CC BY, Wikimedia Commons
/ One of the narrow tunnels along the route
Photo: Karora, CC BY, Wikimedia Commons
/ Mount Taranaki
Photo: Phillip Capper, CC BY, flickr.com
/ Tangarakau Bridge
Photo: Phillip Capper, CC BY, Wikimedia Commons
/ Egmont National Park
Photo: Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons
/ Fraction of Egmont National Park
Photo: Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons
/ Mount Taranaki by night
Photo: Phillip Capper, flickr.com
/ Taranaki in the tranquil hinterland
Photo: Rich Childs, CC BY, Wikimedia Commons

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The north of New Zealand still seems to be a white spot on the map, but that’s exactly what makes this destination so charming, The legendary Forgotten World Highway takes you on a trip to several stunning sights, such as the beautiful Egmont National Park, the breathtaking Tangarakau Gorge - and even to the smallest republic in the world.

Distance 149 km

2:12 h

1,845 m

1,705 m

345 m

133 m

On about 90 miles of length this scenic route makes you discover the tranquil hinterland of new Zealand’s northern island. It follows the former State Highway 43 from the city of Stratford to the city of Taumarunui. The road was constructed in the late 19th century, but it hasn’t lost none of its charm. Crossing vast areas of unspoiled nature, it offers spectacular views of the hinterland. The scenic road is still pretty untraveled and stops by several distinct locations, such as Whangamomona, one of the smallest republics in the world. The route extends from the city of Stratford to the vast Egmont National Park, with an ever-changing landscape spanning from mountain saddles and impressive gorges to spectacular tunnels. Along the way, you will see from afar the stunning peak of Mount Taranaki, the heart of Egmont National Park. But don’t miss to stop by the route’s hidden treasure: Tangarakau Gorge, a deep and narrow valley with steep sides formed by Tangarakau river.

Author’s recommendation

At the end of the route you should schedule at least half a day for visiting Egmont National Park. It is just a few kilometers from Stratford.

Author

Wolfgang Paulus

Update: February 20, 2018

Experience

Landscape

Highest point

345 m

Lowest point

133 m

Best time of year

Jan

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Safety information

This route includes one-lane tunnels and further narrow passages, so please drive carefully and mind the speed limits.

Start

Stratford (174 m)

Coordinates:

-38.883894, 175.255328

DMS

38°53'02.0"S 175°15'19.2"E

UTM

60H 348674 5694661

w3w

///huddle.exacts.best

Destination

Taumarunui

Turn-by-turn directions

Departing from the city of Taumarunui, we head southwards on State Highway 43 (SH43) alongside Whanganui river. After approximately 20 miles turns southwards, but we continue in western direction. Leaving behind the small town of Aukopae, we cross Whanganui River. After a total of 12 miles we get to the Tangarakan River. Following it for approximately 7,5 miles, we pass Tangarakan Gorge and continue in southern direction, while the river turns east. After further 3 miles we cross the settlement of Tahora and reach Whangamomona after further 9 miles. Cotinuing on SH43, we cross the small town of Strathmore heading southwest until we reach the city of Stratford. Now we can explore the famous Egmont National Park and Mount Taranaki in the west of the town.

Note

all notes on protected areas

Public transport

From the airport of Wellington (WLG) to Stratford via bus line Wellington Airport - New Plymouth (total length: approx. 7 hours).

Getting there

From the airport of Wellington (WLG) to Stratford via State Highway 1 and 3 (total distance: approx. 200 miles).

Parking

Along the route there usually aren’t any signposted parking areas, so please inform beforehand about the local parking areas.

Coordinates

-38.883894, 175.255328

DMS

38°53'02.0"S 175°15'19.2"E

UTM

60H 348674 5694661

w3w

///huddle.exacts.best

Arrival by train, car, foot or bike

Equipment

You need solid footwear, weatherproof clothing and enough to drink (preferably water). As there are no gas stations or restaurants along the way, you need to refuel beforehand and take a petrol can with you.

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Distance

149 km

Duration

2:12 h

Ascent

1,845 m

Descent

1,705 m

Highest point

345 m

Lowest point

133 m

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