plan your visit
Our 2025/26 season runs from 11th October 2025 to 9th May 2026.
Use the below to help plan your trip with us including the best time of year to visit!
Why not take advantage of our handy vehicle shift and bus transfer service - we can relocate your vehicle to your tour's destination or book you a return shuttle.
Scroll down for more details!
Included in every experience
Several features of our experiences come as standard and are included in all six Forgotten World adventures
Waterproof containers
For the entire trip
Snack, homebaking or meal
For the entire trip
Shuttles to your rail line
For the entire trip
What to bring
Be prepared! We often experience four seasons in one day when out on the rails and awa (river) and it can get particularly chilly in the tunnels! Bring plenty of layers and warm clothes, no matter what the season.
Please remember to pack reusable water bottles and bags, and avoid single-use plastics where possible. Help us keep the Forgotten World pristine!
Allergy medications
If you require any allergy medications please ensure you bring sufficient protection.
Additional
Snacks
All our experiences include some kind of healthy snack/home-baking or meal and water. If you prefer to snack on something between stops, you’re welcome to pack a few extra snacks of your own for the ride.
Waterproof jacket
The carts have waterproof plastic sides that ensure that the inside of the carts remain relatively dry, but waterproof gear can be useful on a really wet day.
Layers / Warm clothing
As the weather can be changeable and tunnels cool year round, we recommend you bring warm layers and/ or a windproof light jacket plus a beanie or warm hat!
SUNGLASSES & SUN HAT
It’s important to wear sunglasses especially if your eyes are sensitive to sunlight. Bring your favourite pair along for the ride! And a sun hat or cap to keep you cool.
Water bottle
All of our experiences include meal stops where you can refill your water bottles. No plastic please!
Sunblock
The New Zealand sun can be harsh on a summer's or warm day. Don't forget your sunscreen - we recommend SPF 50.
STURDY FOOTWEAR
Good comfortable walking shoes are best. Robust sandals are fine but no jandals (flip flops/ thongs) or heels please.
Camera
Don't forget your trusted camera to capture the stunning scenery. Consider bringing an extra battery or power pack.
cash / card for souvenirs
Guests can purchase gifts and souvenirs from 'The Shed' at Tokirima and from our motel reception / Forgotten World Adventures base so please bring means of payment if you're interested in taking souvenirs home with you.
food allergies & intolerances
We offer vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free and vegan alternatives for meals and snacks offered, but recommend that coeliacs or those with severe intolerances of any kind bring their own food and snacks if preferred, as the GF and DF options we provide are prepared in the same kitchen as other food.
Do you still have questions?
If you’re not quite sure about something, please visit our FAQ page or reach out to us directly.
when to visit
Every season in the Forgotten World is spectacular in its own right, but exactly what you’ll find depends on when you come
spring/summer
September-November / December-February
Daytime temperatures range from 4.5-18°C (40-65°F) in Spring and 14-32°C (55-90°F) in Summer
In Aotearoa New Zealand, spring fever is something you definitely want to catch. It’s postcard NZ for many – newborn lambs dotted along green horizons, blossom on the trees, lavender buds appearing. A fresh, happy atmosphere and skip to the step that makes spring a wonderful time of year to visit. As summer approaches, iconic Pohutukawa trees (known as NZ’s Christmas Tree) start to bloom, the weather starts to pick up and the tourists start to arrive…
The long, warm, sunny days of summer offer the perfect backdrop for outdoor explorations and adventures on land and water. You’ll find breathtaking scenery everywhere you look – the Pohutukawa is in flower and lavender fields are in full bloom from the end of December to early March. School holidays from mid-December to February offer an ideal opportunity to venture off the beaten track. We can still experience four seasons in one day, especially in the tunnels, so be prepared! It’s happy holidays for the locals as the cricket season moves into full swing and time to chill the chardonnay or sauv blanc in the fridge. Whangamomona’s bi-annual Republic Day is a must in January. A great time to experience the Forgotten World.
If you have any additional questions about seasonal considerations, please get in touch
AUTUMN
March-May
Daytime temperatures range from 7-21°C (45-70°F) in Autumn and 1.5-15.5°C (35-60°F) in Winter.
March brings with it a hint of Autumn. The long warm days of summer linger, while the nights cool off. Autumn generally offers settled weather and can serve up some of the best weather of the year. Prime travelling time for many. Apples and pears grow wild along the rails. Blackberries too. A slightly quieter visitor season on the whole but the season still offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities with plenty of peaceful, sunny days. See snow capped mountains, harvesting of the vineyards and orchards and enjoy long evenings. A season where you can enjoy all the activities of summer. Kids are back at school and a more chilly Kiwi winter beckons.
And so what about Winter in the Forgotten World..?
Mid-May sees us slide into winter hibernation mode. Whilst NZ’s winters are mild, we need time to carry out essential works and maintenance on the railway line, work with the natural environment at the centre of our activity. But it’s high season in the ski towns and many head for the slopes of Mt Ruapehu for some superb skiing. Winter experiences are bountiful in the region – there’s still plenty to see and do – and there’s always the international rugby season to keep you entertained!
when to visit
Every season in the Forgotten World is spectacular in its own right, but exactly what you’ll find depends on when you come
spring
September-November
Daytime temperatures range from 4.5-18°C (40-65°F) in Spring and 14-32°C (55-90°F) in Summer
In Aotearoa New Zealand, spring fever is something you definitely want to catch. It’s postcard NZ for many – newborn lambs dotted along green horizons, blossom on the trees, lavender buds appearing. A fresh, happy atmosphere and skip to the step that makes spring a wonderful time of year to visit. As summer approaches, iconic Pohutukawa trees (known as NZ’s Christmas Tree) start to bloom, the weather starts to pick up and the tourists start to arrive…
If you have any additional questions about seasonal considerations, please get in touch
Summer
December-February
The long, warm, sunny days of summer offer the perfect backdrop for outdoor explorations and adventures on land and water. You’ll find breathtaking scenery everywhere you look – the Pohutukawa is in flower and lavender fields are in full bloom from the end of December to early March. School holidays from mid-December to February offer an ideal opportunity to venture off the beaten track. We can still experience four seasons in one day, especially in the tunnels, so be prepared! It’s happy holidays for the locals as the cricket season moves into full swing and time to chill the chardonnay or sauv blanc in the fridge. Whangamomona’s bi-annual Republic Day is a must in January. A great time to experience the Forgotten World.
If you have any additional questions about seasonal considerations, please get in touch
Autumn
March-May
Daytime temperatures range from 7-21°C (45-70°F) in Autumn and 1.5-15.5°C (35-60°F) in Winter.
March brings with it a hint of Autumn. The long warm days of summer linger, while the nights cool off. Autumn generally offers settled weather and can serve up some of the best weather of the year. Prime travelling time for many. Apples and pears grow wild along the rails. Blackberries too. A slightly quieter visitor season on the whole but the season still offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities with plenty of peaceful, sunny days. See snow capped mountains, harvesting of the vineyards and orchards and enjoy long evenings. A season where you can enjoy all the activities of summer. Kids are back at school and a more chilly Kiwi winter beckons.
If you have any additional questions about seasonal considerations, please get in touch
Winter
June-August
Mid-May sees us slide into winter hibernation mode. Whilst NZ’s winters are mild, we need time to carry out essential works and maintenance on the railway line, work with the natural environment at the centre of our activity. But it’s high season in the ski towns and many head for the slopes of Mt Ruapehu for some superb skiing. Winter experiences are bountiful in the region – there’s still plenty to see and do – and there’s always the international rugby season to keep you entertained!
If you have any additional questions about seasonal considerations, please get in touch
vehicle shift & transfers
We can move your vehicle from point A to point B, ensuring it's waiting of you at your final destination at the end of your experience with us. This allows you to continue your onward journey without needing to return to your starting point (e.g. Taumarunui). You can book this vehicle shift add-on when making your booking online or alternatively, arrange it separately with our Bookings team via email or phone. But remember, we always shuttle guests back to their starting point. We provide responsible drivers over the age of 25, holding the appropriate licenses and familiar with the local roads.
RENTAL CARS - please note we can offer this service for rental cars excluding those rented through Euro Car.
Vehicle Shift (per vehicle): Taumarunui - Stratford $195 or Taumarunui - Whangamōmona $120
Shuttle bus (per person): Stratford to Taumarunui (same day) $75 or Whangamōmona to Taumarunui (next day) $35
drive times
The following durations relate to car driving times
Türangi - 45 minutes
Waitomo Caves - 1 hour 15 minutes
Taupō - 1 hour 30 minutes
Whangamōmona - 1 hour 30 minutes (1 hour 45 by bus)
Rotorua - 2 hours 15 minutes
Hobbiton - 2 hours 15 minutes
Stratford - 2 hours 30 minutes (3 hours by bus)
Auckland - 3 hours 30 minutes
sustainability on tour
We uphold the Tiaki Promise - we have a crucial role as kaitiaki guardians to protect and respect our special place, the Forgotten World.
Sustainability is an important focus for all of us here, with an emphasis on our community, land and people. We encourage guests to adopt our eco-friendly practices during their experience with us; specifically regarding the correct recycling and disposal of waste and using refillable bottles. Please adopt the 'Leave No Trace' concept, respect local cultures and be mindful of flora and fauna by staying on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems. If you see any wildlife, observe them from a distance and never feed them - let's preserve their natural habits.
Please travel responsibly and consider your environmental impact. Join us on our zero waste sustainability journey.
ACCESSIBILITY
Many people, of all abilities, have enjoyed our experiences, but there are some things to consider before booking. We suggest you contact us to discuss which activities will best suit your specific needs, or those of your travelling companion.
We’re here to help with any questions you might have about your potential visit. Please don't hesitate to get in touch so we can discuss and advise.
dietary requirements
Vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free and vegan alternatives for meals and snacks are available. Please advise us of any dietary requirements via the digital consent form sent 2 weeks prior to your trip and not less than 48 hours before departure. If you are coeliac or have a severe food intolerance of any kind, we recommend that you bring your own food and snacks for your trip since all meals and snacks are prepared in the same kitchen.
If you have any questions about the types of food and snacks that will be provided during your experience please get in touch with us directly.
Journey into the heart of wild New Zealand
