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All New Zealand Forgotten World Highway
AO Edited

Forgotten World Highway

This remote highway took over 50 years to build.

Whangamōmona, New Zealand

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mharward
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The town of Whangamōmona.   mharward / Atlas Obscura User
Whangamomona Main street   PhronimosNZ / Atlas Obscura User
A sign providing some additional history of the area.   mharward / Atlas Obscura User
View of the forest from the Whangamōmona Saddle.   mharward / Atlas Obscura User
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About

This road leaves Stratford in Taranaki and winds 92 miles (149 kilometers) to Taumarunui in the King Country, passing through some of the most remote parts of New Zealand. Officially designated as Highway 43, it's the only highway to still have an unsealed section.

The road is often narrow, following along the contours of the land. It passes over three saddles, gorges, and through a rough-hewn tunnel.

Halfway along the road, visitors will come across a haven. The tiny town of Whangamomona proclaimed itself to be a republic in 1988. Complete with presidents, passports, and a republic day, it's filled with rural charm. In the center of the town is the Whangamomona Hotel, which is also well worth a visit. 

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Highways History & Culture

Know Before You Go

Taking a drive along this road is a great experience, but it pays to be prepared. Make sure you have a full tank as there are no petrol stations along the route. The road has also been ranked as one of the most dangerous in the country, so make sure you have plenty of time and drive slowly.

Finally, some of the road remains unsealed, so check your tire conditions. The road is also a popular route for cyclists and motorcycles. 

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Community Contributors

Added By

mharward

Edited By

finlayson, PhronimosNZ

  • finlayson
  • PhronimosNZ

Published

August 23, 2021

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Sources
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_Highway_43_(New_Zealand)
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whangam%C5%8Dmona
  • https://www.dangerousroads.org/australia-and-oceania/new-zealand/7347-forgotten-world-highway.html
  • https://www.aa.co.nz/travel/editorial/the-forgotten-world-highway/
  • https://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/117866716/future-of-forgotten-world-highway-sealed-with-96m-pgf-investment
Forgotten World Highway
State Hwy 43
Whangamōmona, 4396
New Zealand
-39.15506, 174.699651
Get Directions

Nearby Places

Bridge to Nowhere, Manawatu-Wanganui

Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand

miles away

Stratford Glockenspiel Clock Tower

Stratford, New Zealand

miles away

Eltham Toy Wall

Eltham, New Zealand

miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of New Zealand

New Zealand

Oceania

Places 141
Stories 44

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Bridge to Nowhere, Manawatu-Wanganui

Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand

miles away

Stratford Glockenspiel Clock Tower

Stratford, New Zealand

miles away

Eltham Toy Wall

Eltham, New Zealand

miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of New Zealand

New Zealand

Oceania

Places 141
Stories 44

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