One of the first stops along the highway is the charming town of Taumarunui. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Forgotten World," Taumarunui is nestled on the banks of the Whanganui and Ongarue rivers. The town serves as a launching point for the Forgotten World Adventures, where visitors can experience rail cart tours that follow the old rail lines through the breathtaking landscape, providing a unique way to explore the hidden treasures of the region. 

As you travel further along the highway, the road winds through the dense native bush of the Tangarakau Gorge, a 12-kilometer stretch of unsealed road surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. This area is renowned for its beauty and tranquility, with ferns, moss-covered rocks, and the sound of native birds providing a serene backdrop. The gorge's isolation adds to the sense of stepping back in time, with the untouched natural environment offering a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Continuing on, the highway passes through the historic settlement of Whangamomona, a quirky village that declared itself a republic in 1989 as a protest against regional boundary changes. This tongue-in-cheek declaration has since become a celebrated local tradition, with the town hosting biennial Republic Day festivities that attract visitors from around the country. Whangamomona’s hotel, built in 1911, is a popular stop for travelers looking to enjoy a meal or stay overnight while soaking in the local culture and history. 

Further along the Forgotten World Highway, travelers encounter the Moki Tunnel, often referred to as the "Hobbit’s Hole." This single-lane, 180-meter-long tunnel was hand-carved in the 1930s and is an iconic feature of the route. As you drive through, the tunnel’s low ceiling and narrow walls create a sense of adventure, reminiscent of tales from Middle Earth. Emerging from the tunnel, the road leads into the lush farmland and rolling hills that characterize the landscape of this part of New Zealand. 

The journey along the Forgotten World Highway concludes at the town of Stratford, situated in the shadow of the majestic Mount Taranaki. Stratford is known for its connection to Shakespeare, with streets named after his plays and characters, and it features New Zealand’s only glockenspiel clock tower, which performs scenes from Romeo and Juliet. The town serves as a fitting end to the journey, combining cultural heritage with the natural splendor of the surrounding Taranaki region. 

Known for its isolation and rugged beauty, this historic route offers travelers a glimpse into a landscape that remainslargely untouched by modern development. 

According to the Internet