Forgotten World Highway

This road leaves

Stratford

in

Taranaki and winds 92 miles (149 kilometers) to Taumarunui in the King Country, passing through some of the most remote parts of

New Zealand

. Officially designated as Highway 43, it’s the only highway to still have an unsealed section.

The road is often narrow, following along the contours of the land. It passes over three saddles, gorges, and through a rough-hewn tunnel.

Halfway along the road, visitors will come across a haven. The tiny town of Whangamomona proclaimed itself to be a republic in 1988. Complete with presidents, passports, and a republic day, it’s filled with rural charm. In the center of the town is the Whangamomona Hotel, which is also well worth a visit.