Taumarunui Must-Do's

TOP TIP: Taumarunui is an excellent place to stay before or after cycling the Timber Trail.

Forgotten World Highway

This remote journey covers 150km of largely empty road between Stratford and Taumarunui, passing Māori pā, abandoned coal mines and ghost towns. Give yourself four hours, expect moss-fringed unsealed road and fill up beforehand – there are no petrol stations.

Lauren’s Lavender Farm

Enjoying a beautiful spot above the Whanganui River, a converted farmhouse hosts a café and outdoor deck, as well as a shop brimming with lavender products.

Forgotten World Adventure Rail Carts

Trundle along a decommissioned railway line in a motorised rail cart, zipping through forgotten world tunnels. Fully guided with captivating commentary.

Forgotten World Adventures Rail Cart Tours Tunnel © Visit Ruapehu

Nevalea Alpacas

No one ever had a bad day with an alpaca. With over 950 of them, this is the New Zealand’s largest alpaca farm. In summer, alpaca treks are all the rage, or you can cuddle one of the babies that are snuggable year-round.

Bradleys Garden

An enchanting space with a myriad of things to do, make the most of mini-putt golf, high-tea and pretty pockets of explorable garden.

Posh Pioneers

For a one-of-a-kind experience, stay in a luxury pioneer-style wagon beside the Whanganui River. Totally off the grid, it's the perfect place to reset after a Whanganui river jaunt.

Want more? Visit Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning.

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