The Ultimate (Taumarunui to Stratford)

Oct-Apr

North Island

Forgotten World Adventures

from

NZ$1095

per adult

Rail cart travelling through open farmland with Mount Taranaki towering in the background.

Experiences

Train & Rail Journeys

History and Māori Culture

Nature & Wildlife

Adventure Tours

Multi-Day Short Tours

North Island

Start: Taumarunui

Finish: Stratford or Taumarunui

Location: Taumarunui

Duration: 2 days

Details

The Ultimate Taumarunui to Stratford Rail Adventure

Travel through the heart of Forgotten World on a two-day journey from Taumarunui to Stratford. This rail cart adventure takes you across 142 kilometres of remote landscapes, following the historic railway through valleys, gorges, and rolling farmland. Along the way, you’ll experience 24 hand-carved tunnels and 98 bridges, each a testament to the determination of early pioneers.

An overnight stay in the Republic of Whangamomona adds charm and character to the experience, with dinner, bed, and breakfast at the iconic Whangamomona Hotel. Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon snacks are included on both days, and your overnight luggage is seamlessly transferred for convenience. This journey combines history, scenery, and a true sense of adventure across New Zealand’s Forgotten World.

Map of Forgotten World Adventures rail trail through central North Island

Rail cart travelling through rolling hill country under a dramatic sunset sky on the Forgotten World Adventures route.

Travellers gathered at Tokirima Station enjoying food and hospitality during the Forgotten World Adventures tour.

Rail cart emerging from a tunnel surrounded by dense native ferns on the Forgotten World Adventures trail.

The historic Whangamōmona Hotel glowing in misty evening light on the Forgotten World Adventures route.

Rustic railway bridge stretching through rolling green hills on the Forgotten World Adventures rail route.

Travellers in a Forgotten World Adventures rail cart with Mount Ruapehu in the background on a clear day.

Rail cart crossing a small bridge in soft morning light on the Forgotten World Adventures rail trail.

Railway tracks leading toward a distant Mount Taranaki under a purple dusk sky.

HIGHLIGHTS

Explore the entire 142 km length of the Okahukura-Stratford Line.
Journey through 24 tunnels and over more than 90 bridges, seeing remnants of original settlements along the way.
Experience two days fully immersed in the scenery, stories, and history of the Forgotten World.
Stay overnight in the Republic of Whangamomona at the renowned Whangamomona Hotel.

INCLUSIONS

142 km rail cart journey - the full length of the SOL line
Guided by knowledgeable locals
Overnight stay in the Republic of Whangamomona, with dinner and breakfast included
Morning and afternoon tea both days, featuring home baking and snacks
Hearty rail-side picnic lunch on both days
Local transfers to/from start and end points (return transport not included) - note that the shuttle to/from Taumarunui/Stratford takes 3 hours. Alternatively, we can move your vehicle
Transfers for your overnight luggage
(Carts please bring your own car seat)

WHAT TO BRING

Sturdy footwear (no jandals), sunglasses, sunblock, sun hat, camera, water bottle, snacks, layers/warm clothing (gloves, beanie hat, scarf – we often experience four seasons in one day), waterproof jacket, warm jacket, insect repellent and allergy medications. A waterproof storage container for bags/belongings is available on the rail carts.

ACCOMMODATION

Stay the night before or after your experience at the Forgotten World Motel in Taumarunui for your comfort and convenience. Cooked and continental breakfasts available (plus GF and DF options) – enquire on check-in.* Centrally located, it’s the ideal base from which to explore the region’s activities and is within easy walking distance of the town’s cafés, restaurants and shops.

*Please note there is an additional charge for breakfast which can be pre-ordered and served in our dining room or your own room for convenience.

AGE INFO

Adult: 16 years +
Children: 3-5 years
Infant: 0-2 years (free on the Rail Carts please bring your own car seat)

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

42 days or more before departure: 20% cancellation fee**
7-41 days before departure: 50% refund**
Less than 7 days before departure: Non-refundable.

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

*Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Itinerary

Day 1: The Ultimate 1 - Taumarunui to Whangamomona

Rail cart exiting a tunnel surrounded by dense native ferns and bush on the Forgotten World Adventures route.

Check in at the Forgotten World Motel and take a shuttle bus to the start of the line at Okahukura. Here, you'll board your Rail Cart and begin your journey through the Forgotten World. Immerse yourself in the changing scenery of rolling hills, remote farmland, and native bush, and observe wildlife close to the tracks.

Stop along the way to hear stories from your guide about the land, its people, and its history. Travel over bridges and through hand-built brick tunnels, including the line’s longest tunnel at 1.5 km, and pass through the Tangarakau Gorge.

The first leg takes you to Matiere and Ōhura, with a relaxing morning tea stop at Matiere. Continue to Tokirima, where you’ll break for lunch and have the chance to browse unique souvenirs at "The Shed." Stop along the way to hear stories from your guide about the land, its people, and its history.

Next, journey through Heao and travel over bridges and through hand-built brick tunnels, including the line’s longest tunnel at 1.5 km, and pass through the awe-inspiring Tāngarākau Gorge for a 20-minute afternoon tea break.

By mid-afternoon, arrive at Whangamomona Station and make your way to the Whangamomona Hotel, either on foot or by shuttle. Unwind with a delicious dinner and comfortable overnight stay in this iconic township.

Day 2: The Ultimate 1 - Whangamomona to Stratford

After breakfast in the hotel’s dining room, return to your rail cart for a 9am departure from Whangamomona and continue your journey to Stratford. Discover ever-changing vistas as you learn about the area's history and the settlers' stories. Pass by redwood plantations, pine forests, and deer farms, and get up close with local wildlife in sheep and beef country.

Stop for morning tea and home baking at Te Wera Station siding, and visit Avonstour Organic Farm, offering a glimpse into sustainable farming practices; with the opportunity to sample and buy locally made produce.

Enjoy lunch at Douglas Station before continuing your journey, marvelling at the spectacular Mt Taranaki dominating the skyline. Cross the largest bridge over the Patea River and travel through Taranaki dairy farmland. Arrive at Victoria Road in Stratford around 3 pm, ready for your onward travel, or take the same-day return shuttle to Taumarunui (additional cost).

This two-day journey is an unforgettable way to experience the history, beauty, and charm of New Zealand’s Forgotten World.