Today we rode the to Whangamomona a small township in the Stratford District and Manawatu-Wanganui Region in New Zealand. It lies on State Highway 43, the "Forgotten World Highway", 65 kilometres (40 mi) north-east of Stratford. The route follows what was originally a Maori trading route. In 1989 regional council boundaries were redrawn, with an emphasis on connected catchments. These revised maps made Whangamomona part of the Manawatu-Wanganui Region. Residents objected, as they wanted to continue being part of the Taranaki Region, and on 1 November 1989, they responded by declaring themselves the "Republic of Whangamomona" at the first Republic Day. Though the move began as a pointed protest, the town continued to hold a celebratory Republic Day once a year, during which a vote for President was held. The day has become a local festival day, and attracts visitors from throughout the North Island. In 2001, the celebration became biennial, held in January to take advantage of the summer weather. One example of an elected mayor was Billy Gumboot the Goat (1999–2001) the
first elected animal. He won election by a landslide. Although some residents speculate he ate the other challengers' ballots in order to win. He died in office after serving for 18 months. A poodle and a turtle have also been elected mayor. For a $2 fee you can even have your passport stamped.
The ride was beautiful through a farming country with very little traffic. We had 3 climbs over 3 different saddles with the last being the longest however overall we had more down than up. We took the time for a little detour to see one of the well known tunnels that were cut through the hills to move cattle around. Once the the 3 deck trucks instead of horse drawn trailers became the norm the floor of the tunnels all had to be lowered 6ft. We had a long drive to Ohakune after lunch so it was a late dinner and night for us.
We only rode the section of the Forgotten Highway from Stratford to Whangamomona. It was much longer than that with some gravel sections and I actually think the part we drove was worse than what we rode.
There was an NZ wood working shop along the way so we stopped to look. He was a delightful fellow who explained things to us. I would like to have bought something but no way to carry it. Jules here is an interesting idea for you.
The Makahu tunnel originally built in 1907. Over the years the locals have had many impromptu parties in the tunnel forcing travellers to either wait, go around or join in the party. What would you choose?
