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Bushlands Campground

Located in the middle of the Forgotten World Highway (SH43), is the Bushlands Campground, offering a paradisaical setting. The campground is situated on the banks of the Tangarakau River, 6km down the Raekohua Road, in a lush green valley dotted with native bush and manuka. This spot is very peaceful and definitely ‘away from it all’. Offering powered and non-powered sites, as well as the freshly refurbished rustic cabins. It’s time to swim in the river, relax by the open fire or cook in the wood fired pizza oven. There is no phone or internet coverage, so its time to unwind, spend time with friends and family and get away from the pressures of everyday life. Slow down, relax and enjoy the amazing beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

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See and Do

The River

Flowing through the Tangakarau Gorge, the river offers plenty of opportunity for trout fishing, rafting and swimming holes for a dip on hot day. There is a beautiful relaxing walk along the river, where you can listen to birdsong and soak nature in its most pure form.

Tangarakau Gorge

With an impressive cliff face of fossilized rock, the 12 km long Tangarakau Gorge offers an amazing insight into the geological and natural history of New Zealand. Return walks from the campground take you along the Tangarakau River to the start of the Gorge.

Mount Pouatu

A hike up to the top of Mt Pouatu is definitely worth the effort. A well formed track ascends through farmland and native bush to reach the top where the views of the surrounding area is simply breathtaking. On a clear day the view of Mt Ruapehu is stunning!

Hiking/Walking

From the campground, there are many hiking opportunities. Explore the start of the Tangarakau Gorge with its beautiful canyon, and the historical train tracks and tunnels. There are numerous scenic reserves and tracks in the surrounding region.

Cycling

Whether it is cycling the winding road through the Tangarakau Gorge, the peaceful gravel side roads through native bush and manuka or mountain biking on purpose built tracks in the district, the opportunities for cycling in this area are endless.

Railway & History

Forgotten World Adventures offer a very unique way to experience the historic train tracks, on their custom built pedal and battery powered golf carts. There is no better way to experience history and landscapes than this. Please inquire for more information.

History Comes Alive

Tangarakau was at one time the second largest town in central Taranaki. Tangarakau’s heyday was from the early 1920s until 1937, when the population peaked at 1200 people. At its peak, the school had 140 pupils, every house had one lightbulb and the town even had street lights. Electricity was provided through a 32-volt DC power plant, which was steam driven and powered by coal from the Tangarakau mines. The town boasted a sports field and had nine sports teams, including cricket, rugby and hockey. There was even a women’s hockey team. Two All Blacks, Jack Sullivan and Bob Scott, were born in the town. However, as the need for workers declined after the construction of the railway, people started to leave for brighter pastures… hence the locals now call it the Ghost Town! The only original building still standing today is the school.