Search hotels in Taumarunui

We were quite surprised that the town was looking so deserted compared to just couple of years ago when we last visited. Many of the shops on the main street (and just about all the ones on the side streets) were unoccupied and boarded up. Having only stayed one night, we didn't have much time to do more than walk up and down the main street to see the shops, but the town has quite a run down feel to it. The activities run by the Forgotten World Motel were mostly not operating at this time of the year (September). If you plan to do the adventure activities offered by the Motel, then visit from mid-October onwards when they are fully operating.

My connections with Taumarunui are mostly through the Tiger Moth Club which was formed there in 1969 and returns every October to the best grass aerodrome in New Zealand. We always get a great welcome from the townspeople - and the weather is (usually) ideal for open-cockpit vintage biplanes.

went on the forgotten highway rail trail adventure trip, which was awesome, all their staff are great, a fascinating trip. Taumaranui itself is a bit grotty, but have a great Thai restaurant and good golf course.

Due to a flooding warning, I canceled my trip. Unfortunately, the motel did not meet expectations. I was told by the staff not to come again because they "don’t like my type." I will certainly not be staying there in the future.

Very nice town with plenty of places to eat. We visited the local RSA and the people there were very friendly, also very helpful. The meal we had was very good and the drinks very reasonable. Also had a meal and drink at the Golf club again very friendly and the service great.

A town full of surprises with opportunities for young and old. Close to t he river and jet boating and river kayak trips, ski fields in either direction, seasonal rail cart possibilities, cycle trails nearby and some good options for shopping and dining. The venison curry at Monsoon was amazing.