Reverse Rail Tour
Discover the people and places history left behind!!
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You asked for it so we’ve done it! Touring the Forgotten World by Rail Cart from Taumarunui.
Discover the people and places history left behind!!
A mystically remote region in New Zealand's Central North Island
Abandoned since 2009, the 142km long Stratford-Okahukura Line with its 24 tunnels and 90 plus bridges, all hand-built, will serve as your playground.
The quiet mystery of this seldom seen region known as the Forgotten World is steeped in history and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in passionate storytelling about our ancestry whilst exploring one of the country's most beautiful and remote locations with its backcountry ghost towns, pristine native bush, rugged hills and deep hidden valleys.
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Tour highlights
Itinerary
Whangamomona – Home
Home (October 15th)
Depart Whanganui Racecourse at 1:00pm and travel up SH4 before a quick stop for some delightful home baked afternoon tea. We arrive in Taumarunui and check into our accommodation before heading out again for a real treat on our first night together.
Taumarunui
We head to Bradleys Garden where there’s plenty of time to view this incredible garden given a 5 star rating by the NZ Gardens Trust. At this time of year the garden will be looking stunning. After a decent look around and for those keen a chance to play mini-golf we’ll sit back and relax in the stunning surroundings and enjoy a magnificent dinner together. After our fabulous meals and a quiet few drinks we’ll head back to our accommodation and rest our heads for the night.
Accomodation: Forgotten World Motel
Taumarunui - Whangamomona
Taumarunui (October 16th)
We’ll have a relatively early start this morning and have breakfast together before boarding our coach to the start of the line at Okahukura.
Here you’ll board your Rail Cart and set off on your journey through the Forgotten World. Immerse yourself in the changing views of rolling hills, remote farmland and native bush. Experience wildlife close to the tracks.
Stop along the way to hear stories, from your guide, of the land, its people and history. Travel over bridges and through hand-built brick tunnels, including the lines longest tunnel at 1.5km, and journey through the Tangarakau Gorge.
Enjoy morning tea at one of the historic settlements of Matiere or Tangarakau, and a rail-side picnic lunch at Tokirima.
Whangamomona
We then hop off the carts and you can stroll around the Republic of Whangamomona and explore the town and its charismatic pub.
This famous pub is where will will have dinner and stay the night deep in the heart of the Forgotten World. A magical evening will be had sharing stories of the day and raising a glass to the new friendships you’ve made.
Accommodation: Whangamomona Hotel
Whangamomona – Home
Whangamomona (October 17th)
After a good night's rest we casually wake for breakfast and then board the bus and start our journey home.
We’ll continue through to Stratford by bus completing our journey through the Forgotten World Highway and stop for a delicious lunch at a local establishment before continuing our journey back home.
Home
We arrive home safely mid-late afternoon.
Photos from the road
Check out what we got up to last time
Optional extras
Optional extras
Meet your tour guide
Jason Granville
After years in the broadcasting industry, Jase hung up his headphones to run Take It Easy Tours. With now over a decade behind the wheel Jason ensures every tour will leave you with a lifetime of memorable expereinces.
Reserve your spot
There is limited availability for this tour. Please contact us to find out more.
Frequently asked questions
Can you collect me from my door?
Yes, it would be our pleasure. We can arrange for you to be picked up and returned to your front door at the conclusion of any tour.
How about travel insurance?
We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. It just puts your mind at ease. Remember to make sure you are covered for and loss of personal possessions, sickness, accidents or travel delays. Feel free to ask us for any tips to make this quick and easy for you.
How active are your tours?
We are called Take it Easy for a reason as we like to do just that. Do as much or as little as you like - after all it's your holiday! However, there is walking and various activities on each tour that require various levels of fitness. Please check with us if you are unsure about anything and relax knowing that there's always another option for you if you would rather miss out on any activity. We always have a back up plan.
I have some dietary requirements?
Please just let us know in advance and we will sort everything for you. Chefs are used to all sorts now when it comes to diet so as long as we know - we’ll have you covered.
What happens if I have to cancel?
Cancellation charges do apply so again we recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy is clearly outlined for each tour so make sure you cast your eye over it and please feel free to ask any questions.
What kind of accommodation do we stay in?
Having a good night's rest after a day out touring is very important so we personally choose all of our accommodation. Generally, four star accommodation when available - with all the comforts you need for a relaxed night.
What types of transport do we use?
Our buses are quality touring coaches that are very comfortable and fully air conditioned. They range in size from 19-28 seats ensuring that we can easily access all those secret spots off the beaten track. All vehicles are regularly serviced as your safety is our priority.
Coaches and luggage trailers are always locked and secure but we recommended you take any valuables with you when staying overnight.
Still have questions?
Get in touch with our friendly staff
What our customers say
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