Highlights
- Full day rail cart journey in Taumarunui (near Taupo)
- Historic locations including the Whangamomona Republic
- Travel through 21 hand-built railway tunnels
- Local guides provide commentary about the forgotten world!
Description
Explore New Zealand's forgotten landscapes on an unforgettable full day rail cart tour with Forgotten World Adventures, located just 1.5 hours from Taupo. This guided tour takes you on a historic route through stunning central North Island landscapes, aboard one of the iconic Forgotten World Rail Carts.
The tour includes a shuttle from the Forgotten World Motel in Taumarunui to Whangamomona, where you'll start your adventure. It's then time to board your rail cart and set off on a journey through the Forgotten World! Travel along a historic railway line that winds through remote farmland, native bush and stunning scenery. Along the way, you'll travel through 21 historic hand-built tunnels, as well as cross viaducts and bridges. When emerging from each tunnel, you will be surprised to find a completely different vista on the other side, making this the perfect trip for sightseeing lovers.
The tour includes stops at various points of interest, where you can stretch your legs and learn about the history and culture of the area. Travel through the dramatic Tangarakau Gorge, visit the quirky Republic of Whangamomona (yes, this New Zealand town is it's own republic!) and learn about forgotten townships from your local expert guide. You'll also enjoy a delicious rail-side picnic lunch at Tokirima Station, before continuing on your journey.
The Forgotten World Adventures full day rail cart tour is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Located 1 hour from Ruapehu and 1.5 hours from Taupo, it's perfect for anyone looking for adventure, history and the great outdoors in the North Island.
Trip Includes
- 82km rail cart journey from Whangamomona to Taumarunui
- Expert local guide
- Shuttle transfers to/from the start & end
- Morning & afternoon tea
- Light picnic lunch at Tokirima Station
- Travel through the line’s longest tunnel (1.5km)
Duration
Departures
- Departs 7:00am (returns 5:30pm)
- Departs from Forgotten World Motel on Hakiaha Street, Taumarunui (approx 1.5hrs from Taupo)
- Operates in summer only (Oct-May)
Other Information
- Difficulty level: easy
- Child rates apply (3-15yrs)
- Infants 0-2yrs travel free of charge (please bring your own car seat)
- Rail Carts are self-driven & petrol operated. Drivers must be 16 years or older & hold a current drivers licence as per NZTA requirements
- Children must be supervised at all times & must remain strapped in any time the cart is moving.
- There are a range of rail carts available from 2, 4 and 6 seaters - to suit your group size
- Please bring sturdy footwear, windproof light jacket, raincoat, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, water bottle, snacks & spending money (cash)
- If travelling in April or May, you may need to bring an extra warm jacket, hat & gloves
- Please advise of any dietary requirements upon booking
Normal Retail Price
- Whangamomona to Taumarunui:
- Adult NZD$455.00
- Child (3-15yrs) NZD$285.00
- Family (2ad+2ch) NZD$1315.00
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All prices shown in NZD$.
Unfortunately, the rail cart does not go through Taupo; it runs between Taumarunui and whangamomona. Therefore you would need to make your own way from Taupo to Taumarunui if you want to have this experience!
Comment by: Everything New Zealand (Jordyn) on 19th Jan 25 at 10:11