Forgotten World Highway
Taranaki
The Forgotten World Highway, officially known as State Highway 43, stretches 148 kilometers from Stratford in Taranaki to Taumarunui in the King Country of New Zealand. This route traverses rugged and remote countryside, passing through several small towns including Toko, Douglas, Te Wera, Pohukura, Strathmore, WhangamÅmona, Marco, Koruatahi, Tahora, and Tatu. The highway is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the Tangarakau Gorge with walls nearly 60 meters high, and the Moki Tunnel, also called Hobbit's Hole. The road climbs three saddles: Strathmore Saddle, WhangamÅmona Saddle, and Tahora Saddle, offering varied and challenging terrain. Near the Moki Tunnel lies the access point to Mount Damper Falls, the fourth-highest waterfall in the North Island. The highway also passes through the self-declared Republic of WhangamÅmona, a unique cultural landmark established in 1989. Historically, the road contained the last unsealed portion of New Zealand's state highway network until its completion in early 2025, reflecting its rugged and isolated nature. Today, the Forgotten World Highway is celebrated for its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and quirky local culture, making it a captivating journey for adventurous travelers.
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Tip: The best time to drive the Forgotten World Highway is during dry weather to avoid slippery conditions, especially before the full sealing was completed in 2025. It's advisable to allocate up to three hours for the journey to enjoy the scenery and stops. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets or passes for local attractions, such as the Republic of WhangamÅmona events, in advance when possible. While the road is now fully sealed, it remains narrow in places, so cautious driving is recommended. Travelers interested in hiking should plan a visit to Mount Damper Falls, accessible from the highway. Discounts may be available for group tours or local heritage sites along the route.
Interesting facts
- â¢The highway was the last state highway in New Zealand to have an unsealed section until 2025.
- â¢The Moki Tunnel is also known as Hobbit's Hole, a name inspired by its appearance and local lore.
- â¢Mount Damper Falls, accessible from the highway, is the fourth-highest waterfall in New Zealand's North Island.
- â¢WhangamÅmona declared itself a republic in 1989 as a protest against district boundary changes.
- â¢The Tangarakau Gorge along the highway has nearly 60-meter-high walls, creating dramatic scenery.
History
State Highway 43 was established as a route connecting Stratford to Taumarunui, with its origins tied to the StratfordâOkahukura railway line built in the 1920s.
Many ghost towns along the highway date back to this railway era.
For many years, it contained the last unsealed section of New Zealand's state highways, specifically a 12 km stretch through the Tangarakau Gorge, which contributed to its reputation for challenging driving conditions.
The Republic of WhangamÅmona declared itself independent in 1989 following district boundary changes, adding a unique cultural chapter to the highway's history.
The final unsealed section was sealed by early 2025 after government funding was allocated in 2019, marking a significant infrastructure milestone for the route.
Place Guide
Moki Tunnel (Hobbit's Hole)1920s
A historic tunnel carved through rock, famous for its narrowness and Hobbit-inspired nickname. It is a highlight of the highway and a popular photo spot.
Republic of WhangamÅmona1989
A small locality along the highway that declared itself an independent republic in 1989. It hosts regular events celebrating its unique status and culture.
Mount Damper Falls
The fourth-highest waterfall in New Zealand's North Island, accessible via a turnoff near the Moki Tunnel. The falls are a popular hiking destination.
Tangarakau Gorge
A dramatic gorge with cliff walls nearly 60 meters high. The road through the gorge was unsealed until 2025, making it a challenging but scenic drive.