Rt 43, better known as the Forgotten Highway winds through isolated areas between Waikato and Taranaki. It passes through the village of Whangamomona which once declared independence
when the authorities threatened to move it from Taranaki to Waikato in a boundary adjustment (a serious business when this might mean changing rugby loyalties).
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Lavender farm near Taumarunui

Whanganui River

The route winds through a deep gorge

Grave of the surveyor of much of the route

Taranaki boast a number of tunnels even on small roads

Wild pig skins

Whangamomona

Power was being fixed in town, problem if you only have a bank card
to pay in the pub!

Border post