The Epic Forgotten World Adventure

The adventure begins bright and early at the Forgotten World Motel in Taumarunui, where you’ll check in and receive a warm welcome. After a short transfer to the rail carts, you’ll set off on a remarkable journey through rugged countryside and lush native bush.

Crossing 47 bridges and passing through 20 tunnels, the journey is a feast for the senses, with every turn revealing new vistas and tales of the land’s history. By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive in the quaint Republic of Whangamōmona, New Zealand’s only self-proclaimed republic. Here, you’ll settle into the charming Whangamōmona Hotel for an evening of hearty food, hospitality, and a restful night.

7:00 AM: Begin your adventure with check-in at the Forgotten World Motel in Taumarunui.

Morning: Board your rail cart and travel across rugged countryside, navigating 47 bridges and 20 tunnels. The journey offers stunning views of native bush and rich historical storytelling along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in the iconic Republic of Whangamōmona, New Zealand’s only self-proclaimed republic.

Evening: Check into the Whangamōmona Hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast at the Whangamōmona Hotel, the journey continues along the Stratford–Okahukura rail line. As the rail cart weaves its way through the remaining tunnels and across 18 more bridges, you’ll be treated to even more spectacular scenery and captivating stories from your guide.

By early afternoon, the adventure transitions from rail to road as a guided shuttle takes you from Stratford to Whanganui. Upon arriving in Whanganui, you’ll check in at the Aotea Motor Lodge, a comfortable base for the evening. You’ll have the flexibility to explore the city and dine at a restaurant of your choice, with your guide on hand to provide local recommendations.

Morning: Enjoy breakfast at the Whangamōmona Hotel before continuing your rail cart journey.

Highlights: Travel through the remaining tunnels and 18 bridges on the Stratford–Okahukura (SOL) rail line, soaking in more breathtaking scenery.

2:30 PM: Reach Stratford and transfer via shuttle to Whanganui.

Evening: Check into Aotea Motor Lodge, where you can relax and explore the city at your leisure. Dinner arrangements are flexible, with local recommendations available.

The day begins with a delicious breakfast before heading to the Matahiwi Gallery & Café for morning tea surrounded by stunning artwork. Along the way, you’ll visit the historic Kaimanawa Flour Mill, accessed by a short scenic walk, and enjoy a guided tour of Jerusalem, a tranquil village rich in cultural significance. From there, the journey takes a thrilling turn as you reach Pipiriki and board a jet boat to travel upstream along the Whanganui River.

Midday brings a short bushwalk through the lush Whanganui National Park to the iconic Bridge to Nowhere. Here, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and learn about the bridge’s fascinating history from your guide. The adventure continues with a return walk and a scenic jet boat ride to Blue Duck Station, a serene retreat nestled in Whakahoro. As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a warm meal, storytelling, and the peaceful ambience of Blue Duck Station for an unforgettable overnight stay.

Morning: Start with breakfast before heading to Matahiwi Gallery & Café for morning tea amidst beautiful artwork.

Sightseeing Stops:

Visit the historic Kaimanawa Flour Mill with a short return walk.

Explore the serene village of Jerusalem with a guided tour.

11:00 AM: Arrive at Pipiriki and board a jet boat for a thrilling ride along the Whanganui River.

Midday: Stop at Mangapurua Landing and take a 3km bushwalk through Whanganui National Park to the Bridge to Nowhere. Enjoy lunch on the bridge while learning its fascinating history.

Afternoon: Return via bushwalk to the jet boat and travel to Blue Duck Station in Whakahoro.

Evening: Dinner, storytelling, and an overnight stay at this tranquil retreat.

After breakfast at Blue Duck Station, the final day begins with a thrilling ATV transfer to your jet boat for the last leg of the river journey. As you travel along the Whanganui River, your guide will share stories of the region’s history and cultural heritage, adding depth to the breathtaking views.

The tour concludes with a visit to Lauren’s Lavender Farm, a peaceful haven where you’ll savour a delightful lunch amid the fragrant lavender fields. From there, a short shuttle ride brings you back to the Forgotten World Motel in Taumarunui by early afternoon, marking the end of your epic adventure.

This unforgettable journey blends natural beauty, rich history, and heartfelt hospitality, leaving you inspired by the stories of New Zealand’s past and present.

Morning: Breakfast at Blue Duck Station, followed by an ATV transfer to your next jet boat ride.

River Journey: Continue exploring the stunning Whanganui River with captivating historical and cultural insights.

Lunch: Stop at Lauren’s Lavender Farm, a serene spot to savour your final meal on the tour.

1:30 PM: Take a shuttle back to the Forgotten World Motel in Taumarunui, arriving around 2:00 PM.