Full Day Rail Cart Experience - Republic 2
Highlights & inclusions
1. Select date
August 2026
2. Select participants
What you can expect
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.
Location
What you need to know
- 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)
- Available only from mid‑October to mid‑May each year
- Every season in the Forgotten World is spectacular in its own right, but exactly what you’ll find depends on when you come
- Allow 10 hours
- 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)
- Can we bring dogs on the Forgotten World Adventures Full Day Cart Tour in New Zealand? Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Full Day Cart Tour with Forgotten World Adventures in New Zealand. It is the rule of the New Zealand Travel Agency, so unfortunately there is no way around it.
- 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
