OUR STORY
the ultimate adventure tourism experience
We offer guests the unique opportunity to self-drive their own iconic Forgotten World rail cart along the 142km of heritage rail tracks whilst immersed in the truly spectacular, dramatic and ever-changing native New Zealand landscape.
The thrill of this scenic train journey by rail cart is an unrivalled experience in Aotearoa New Zealand!
Read on to find out how it all
came about…
A hidden gem in nz
When someone first suggested turning a decommissioned railway line in the Central North Island into a tourist attraction, no one could have guessed how great a success such an ambitious gamble would become. An inspired idea was transformed into a viable tourism business. 13 years on from its launch in 2012, Forgotten World Adventures continues to evolve and welcomes around 7000 visitors a year and employs over 30 staff in peak season. We welcome guests from New Zealand and all over the world. A story which began with a flash of inspiration and recollection of an unforgettable journey is now creating its own unique memories for visitors to this remarkable region.
new owners and a new vision...
Current owners Grant Ross and Laura Wackett took over the business after relocating their young family from France to New Zealand in March 2022, a move which brought with it a much desired professional challenge for them both, and on the personal side, fulfilling the dream to give their two boys, Harrison and Cameron, a traditional Kiwi upbringing.
Originally from Wellington, Grant left New Zealand in 1989 to play professional rugby in South Africa and then France. A career in the television industry followed, the world in which he and Laura met. Laura, born and bred in Kent, England, spent 15 years working in television for international production groups before she and Grant made the exciting, life-changing decision to take the leap into the tourism business. Grant’s two older daughters Manaia and Airini remain in Paris but were delighted to offer their stamp of approval on ‘The Republic’ tour which they enjoyed on their first visit!
Our Vision
Forgotten
no longer
Laura & Grant
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