That name conjures up so many images that when I saw it on the map as an alternative route to New Plymouth my gypsy gene kicked in and decided it would be far more interesting than going along the main highway.
This is a 150 kilometre journey of discovery. It winds along the Wanganui River following valleys, then up, over and across the New Zealand back country. The scenery is spectacular.
I spotted fields of lavender, a splash of purple rolling across the hills. Even though it was an overcast day I had to stop for a photograph.
Laurens Lavender Farm (click here for more photos and information) is a family owned business and Lauren is totally dedicated to her beautiful surroundings. The scent of lavender wafted from the small shop and I found an ideal gift to buy for my New Plymouth friends.
This was a delightful start to our journey.
Forgotten is its name, but this route is really a journey of remembrance. Along its length there are constant reminders of settlers who tried to scratch out a living in the wild, isolated hill country. Imagine coming here in the 1800’s and being faced with thick New Zealand bush, steep hills and isolation. The pioneers were a strong breed of people but many tried and failed to combat the ever encroaching bush, the harsh climate and the isolation.
We walk into the native bush, along the banks of the river to find the grave of Joshua Morgan a respected early surveyor who died in 1893 at the age of 35. This memorial also remembers the many other pioneers who helped shape this area.
In 1895 Whangamomona was a bustling frontier town with up to 300 residents. After the great flood of 1924 the town went into decline and now has a population of only 30 residents. But the heritage listed Whangamomona Hotel declared itself a Republic in 1989 as a protest to changing boundaries. Tourists pour into the small town every second year to be part of Republic Day celebrations and see the new mayor elected. The walls inside this iconic hotel are covered with photos and news paper clippings telling the history. (Click here for more information and photos). The dining room was doing a roaring trade with a bus load of pensioners out for a day trip from New Plymouth. We managed to find a table in the corner and ordered a pie and cuppa and watched the drawing of the raffles and frivolity going on among the day trippers.
Next time we pass this way I would like to spend a night here. It would be interesting.
We are almost at the end of our road trip along the Forgotten World Highway. There were many side trips we could’ve explored but time did not permit us to linger too long, so I hope we have the opportunity to do this drive again.
Kiwi’s, as New Zealanders are affectionately called, are renowned for their ability to be creative and fix things and as the saying goes
” A Kiwi can fix any thing with a piece of number 8 wire.” Take a close look at the gate!!!!
“Whangamomona” … my new favorite word!
what a beautiful place … it looks so laid-back, unhurried. And so beautiful!
LikeLike
I love that word too it took me a while to pronounce it, you have to say it slowly pronouncing every syllable, it just rolls off your tongue. 😛
LikeLike
I know … once you get the hang of it, it’s really fun to say!
LikeLike
Wonderful post PP! I often think about the early explorers who had no idea what was around the next hill or across the next stream. How courageous they must have been – it’s hard enough for us even with maps and motors!! Thanks for the reminder and for sharing your beautiful countryside with us.
LikeLike
I agree Tina, I am in awe of the pioneers and how brave they were. We owe so much to them
LikeLike
I wouldn’t be able to resist a road called that either PP. When driving if I see anything that resembles a ‘scenic highway’ I have to follow it, which can be a bit hairy at times. Whangamomona looks like a place I have to try and stay in if only for the fact it is a republic! Some odd folk ‘down under’ 🙂
LikeLike
It is amazing what you find down these “off the beaten track” places. It’s what makes travel addictive… 🙂
LikeLike
That’s so true 🙂
LikeLike
those hills are pretty forbidding … I think I would be turning back Pauline!
LikeLike
Think of the strong legs, back and butt you would develop walking those hills!!!!
LikeLike
At Whangamomona Hotel I remember because of the beautiful lady I took a photo of.
This post does no show her but it does show me at the pub and the great rolling hills.
LikeLike
I’m about to follow in your footsteps – we’re planning a trip along this highway in a few weeks. Great to get a preview!
LikeLike
Make sure you pick up the information folder from the Isite it has lots of interesting info and leave plenty of time. I would’ve liked to do some of the walking trails but had to be in New Plymouth. We started from Tauramanui at 9-30 and arrived in NP 5-30.
LikeLike
Thanks for the handy tips! We’ll be away a week so am hoping that means we’ll be able to take our time.
LikeLike
I look forward to reading about your trip…
LikeLike