Forgotten World Highway overview
The Forgotten World Highway (State Highway 43) runs for 150 kilometres between Stratford and Taumarunui, cutting through the central North Island’s rugged interior. It’s not a fast road — and that’s the point. With winding hills, one-lane tunnels and unsealed stretches, it’s the kind of drive where slowing down comes naturally.
The route follows a path that’s rich in stories, originally based on traditional Māori walking tracks and later shaped by early European settlers. Along the way, you’ll pass through tiny settlements that still carry echoes of that past — from coal-mining towns to farming communities that once bustled with activity.
When you’re travelling by campervan, the Forgotten World Highway works particularly well. There are places to pull over, parks to stay overnight, and plenty of spots worth taking your time over. Whether it’s a short stop in Whangamōmona or a longer break at a local holiday park, the route offers the kind of flexibility that suits campervan travel.
Must-see historical sites along the Forgotten World Highway
There’s no shortage of character along SH43, but a few places really stand out for their stories, landmarks and connection to the past. Here are some of the key historical stops worth pulling over for as you make your way along the route.
Stratford – the Shakespearean gateway
Stratford is a charming spot to explore before (or after) tackling the Forgotten World Highway. Named after Shakespeare’s birthplace, the town has leaned into its literary namesake with a uniquely Kiwi twist. Right in the middle of town is the Glockenspiel Clock Tower — the only one of its kind in New Zealand — where Romeo and Juliet appear several times a day to perform their famous balcony scene.
Framed by views of Mt Taranaki, Stratford is a handy place to top up on fuel and supplies, with supermarkets, cafés and other essentials nearby. And for parking up, the Stratford Holiday Park is a convenient place to stay, with powered sites and easy walking access to town. It’s a good base if you want to explore a little before continuing along SH43.
The Forgotten World Highway Rail Cart experience
One of the most memorable ways to experience the region’s history is by hopping aboard a rail cart with Forgotten World Adventures. Based in Taumarunui, this unique attraction gives you the chance to travel along a decommissioned railway line that once served the area’s coal and farming industries. The modified carts are self-driven and follow a guided route through tunnels, over bridges and past remnants of long-abandoned settlements.
What makes it special is the perspective — you're literally riding through history, along tracks that most people never get to see. There are a range of tour options, from half-day trips to multi-day packages, and everything is organised for you.
For campervan travellers, the starting point in Taumarunui is easy to access, and there’s parking available nearby. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially in the warmer months when tours are in higher demand.
The Moki Tunnel (Hobbit’s Hole)
Roughly halfway along the Forgotten World Highway, you’ll come across one of the route’s quirkiest features — the Moki Tunnel. Locally nicknamed ‘Hobbit’s Hole’, this single-lane tunnel was carved through solid rock back in 1936 to help transport timber and goods through the region. At just under 200 metres long, it’s narrow, unlined and a little unexpected — which is exactly why people love it.
Driving through it in a campervan is perfectly doable, though you’ll want to take it slow and be mindful of oncoming traffic. There’s a small pull-over area just before the tunnel where you can stop to take photos or let others pass. The surrounding landscape is rugged and remote, and the tunnel adds a real sense of character to the drive. It’s not a long stop, but it’s one of those places that sticks in your memory.
Tangarakau ghost town
Just east of the Moki Tunnel, you’ll find the remnants of Tangarakau, a once-thriving settlement that’s now considered one of New Zealand’s ghost towns. In the 1920s, it was home to more than 1,200 residents, most of whom were involved in the rail and timber industries. Today, the buildings are gone, but traces of the town’s past remain — railway relics, historic tracks and a quiet stillness that tells its own story. It’s one of those places where the silence speaks volumes.
To get a feel for what life was like here, take a short break at Bushlands Campground, which sits on the edge of the former town site. It’s campervan-friendly, with powered and non-powered sites, and is one of the few places to stay overnight along the more remote stretch of SH43. If you're travelling between Stratford and Taumarunui, it’s a peaceful mid-point to rest and reflect on how much the region has changed — and how much of its history still lingers.
Whangamōmona – the Republic of Whangamōmona
Tucked into a valley along the central stretch of SH43, Whangamōmona is more than just a dot on the map — it’s a self-declared republic with a famously independent streak. In 1989, frustrated by regional boundary changes, the locals ‘seceded’ from New Zealand in protest and elected their own president. Since then, the Republic of Whangamōmona has become a legendary stop on the Forgotten World Highway, offering a mix of humour, history and genuine small-town hospitality.
The Whangamōmona Hotel is the heart of the town — part pub, part museum, part gathering place. You can grab a meal, hear stories from the locals, and even get your passport stamped as a souvenir. If you feel like stopping over, there’s a campground nearby and parking is usually easy to find. It’s a great place to take a break, meet a few characters, and soak up the offbeat charm that makes this place a favourite among those who’ve taken the time to detour through.
Tahora Saddle – a panoramic view of history
Between Whangamōmona and Tangarakau, the road climbs to one of its most scenic high points — Tahora Saddle. This lookout offers wide views across the valleys and ranges of eastern Taranaki, with layers of farmland, forest and winding road stretching into the distance. It’s a spot that invites a pause — not just for the view, but for its quiet connection to the past.
The area around Tahora has long been significant, once used as a meeting and trading place by local Māori. Later, it became a key point for early settlers navigating the rugged interior. There’s a small cemetery nearby that adds another layer of local history, and the spot is a popular stop for those tracing the stories of the region. For campervan travellers, there’s enough space to safely pull over and take it in. Whether you’re snapping a few photos or just having a break from the drive, it’s well worth the stop.
Lauren’s Lavender Farm (bonus stop near Taumarunui)
Just before reaching Taumarunui, Lauren’s Lavender Farm offers a peaceful place to wind down after the drive. While it’s not a historic site in the traditional sense, it’s a lovely way to round off your time on the Forgotten World Highway. Set beside the Whanganui River, the farm is home to rows of purple blooms in the warmer months, with a small café and gift shop that adds to its laid-back charm.
It’s an easy detour from the main road, with signposted access and plenty of room for campervans to park. The setting is quiet and rural, and the farm’s connection to the land ties in nicely with the region’s agricultural roots. If you’re after a low-key stop before heading on to Taupō or further north, it’s a relaxing place to stretch your legs and take a breather after the backroads of SH43.
READ MORE: Romantic things to do in New Plymouth.
Best time to visit
The Forgotten World Highway is open year-round, but each season offers a slightly different experience:
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Spring (September–November): A great time to travel, with mild weather, green hillsides and fewer crowds on the road. Expect the occasional rain shower.
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Summer (December–February): The most popular time for campervan travel. Long days and warmer temperatures make this season ideal for sightseeing and overnight stays.
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Autumn (March–May): Known for its clear skies and golden colours, autumn is a good choice if you prefer quieter roads and cooler days.
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Winter (June–August): Less busy, but conditions can be more challenging. Expect cold mornings, fog in the valleys, and slippery gravel sections — especially after rain.
Safety & driving tips
The Forgotten World Highway is scenic, but it’s also one of the more remote drives in the country — which means a few extra precautions go a long way. Parts of the road are narrow, winding and unsealed, so it’s important to drive carefully, especially if you’re in a larger vehicle like a campervan. Take your time on gravel sections, keep to a safe speed, and be ready for sharp corners and limited visibility in places.
There are no fuel stations along SH43, so it’s essential to fill up in either Stratford or Taumarunui before you set off. It’s also worth having food, water and any essentials packed before you hit the more isolated stretches. You may encounter livestock on the road — many sections are unfenced, and it’s not uncommon to come across sheep or cattle wandering close to the verge.
If it’s your first time driving in New Zealand, or if you’d like a refresher, Maui’s driving guide has practical tips for navigating local roads, including what to expect on more rural routes like this one.
Download the thl Roadtrip app
Before setting off, it’s well worth downloading the thl Roadtrip app. It’s designed for campervan travellers and includes everything from recommended campsites to offline maps and handy travel tips. You can use it to find your next overnight stop, check local weather, and even get booking details for nearby holiday parks.
Given how patchy mobile coverage can be along the Forgotten World Highway, having offline access to maps and campground info can be especially useful. It’s a simple way to keep your trip running smoothly — even in the more remote stretches of the drive.
Ready to take a trip back in time?
Ready to hit the road? The Forgotten World Highway is full of character, history and memorable stops that are best explored with the freedom of a campervan. Book your Maui campervan online today and start planning a road trip that takes you beyond the usual route.
FAQs
Is the Forgotten World Highway suitable for campervans?
Yes — the route is suitable for campervans, but you’ll need to take extra care on the unsealed sections and narrow stretches. It’s best suited to confident drivers who are comfortable navigating winding, rural roads.
How long does it take to drive the Forgotten World Highway?
The drive between Stratford and Taumarunui is around 150 km and takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours without stops. However, with several interesting places to visit along the way, it’s worth allowing a full day — or even overnighting — to make the most of it.
Are there places to stay along the highway?
There are a few well-placed campgrounds and holiday parks, including options in Stratford, Taumarunui and at Bushlands near Tangarakau. It’s a good idea to plan your stops in advance, as accommodation is limited in the more remote sections.
Is fuel available along the Forgotten Highway route?
There are no fuel stations on SH43 itself, so you’ll need to fill up in either Stratford or Taumarunui before setting off.
Is mobile coverage available on the Forgotten Highway?
Coverage is limited along much of the route, particularly through the middle section. It’s best to download any maps or directions ahead of time and let someone know your plans if you’re travelling solo.
Do I need to book campervan sites in advance?
During peak travel seasons (especially summer and public holidays), it’s a good idea to book ahead where possible — particularly in smaller campgrounds like Bushlands. Many sites can be booked online, or through the thl Roadtrip app.