Story by Larissa
Villa on Forgotten World Highway
Adventure in Stratford, Taranaki, NZ
Considering a farm stay? A unique place to hit the hay—quite literally—on your next getaway? Mill House is the type of property where the farmlands, animals and old-fashioned ambience were the main draw for our family. The farm stay encompasses all the comforts of home while also creating space to unplug and enjoy a simpler way of life. Add in the fresh countryside air, the pastoral scenery, plus the feel-good emotions associated with a sustainable agritourism accommodation – what more could you ask for, really?
Mill House was built in the early 1900s by the McCluggage Family, It’s a fully furnished, four-bedroom home that comfortably sleeps eight. A family-friendly home stocked with board games and toys that the kids thoroughly enjoyed. Food is a big part of our adventures and the Mill House had one of the most well-stocked kitchens we've experienced, which made cooking and entertaining even more fun, adding an extra layer comfort to our trip. The fireplace was the perfect spot to warm up and converse till our eyelids grew heavy.
Even during our rainy and wintry stay, we found several opportunities to immerse ourselves in the brisk, open air of the farm, nearby Whangamomona township, and the Forgotten World Highway. Our stay was near the start of spring, and calves were being born with the shepherds in the thick of lambing season! We even got to name some of the newest furry members of the Mill House family, a memory the kids will never forget!
Mill House was built in the early 1900s by the McCluggage Family, It’s a fully furnished, four-bedroom home that comfortably sleeps eight. A family-friendly home stocked with board games and toys that the kids thoroughly enjoyed. Food is a big part of our adventures and the Mill House had one of the most well-stocked kitchens we've experienced, which made cooking and entertaining even more fun, adding an extra layer comfort to our trip. The fireplace was the perfect spot to warm up and converse till our eyelids grew heavy.
Even during our rainy and wintry stay, we found several opportunities to immerse ourselves in the brisk, open air of the farm, nearby Whangamomona township, and the Forgotten World Highway. Our stay was near the start of spring, and calves were being born with the shepherds in the thick of lambing season! We even got to name some of the newest furry members of the Mill House family, a memory the kids will never forget!
Things We Did
- Hike
- Scenic Drive
- Pub
At 74 metres, Mount Damper Falls is one of the highest in the North Island. A one-kilometre trek to the falls return via same track. From beautiful farmlands and furry animals to lush foliage and native bush, the walk itself is an enjoyable family-friendly adventure. Once you reach your destination, the remarkable waterfall is a vision never to be forgotten.
DOC info – from the car park, step over the style and walk over the formed track beside the creek. The first 10 minutes are over open farmland – respect private property, leave gates as you find them and stay on the track. Follow the track until you reach the bridge, from where the bush starts. The track descends gradually to two viewing platforms.
DOC info – from the car park, step over the style and walk over the formed track beside the creek. The first 10 minutes are over open farmland – respect private property, leave gates as you find them and stay on the track. Follow the track until you reach the bridge, from where the bush starts. The track descends gradually to two viewing platforms.
The Moki Tunnel is a fine example of the unusual and well-thought-out work completed by the road engineers and surveyors of early New Zealand. About two decades ago, a witty traveller nailed up a sign re-naming the Moki Tunnel as the Hobbit’s Hole and this nickname is still used today. It has been appreciated by many travellers on the road and is seen as one of the remote tourist attractions of Taranaki.
Certainly off the beaten track! One of New Zealand’s great historic hotels. You'll feel right at home in the heritage nature of this historic hotel, especially with warm and welcoming staff to greet you. This 'must-stop' on your Forgotten Highway adventure is a great place to fuel up for your journeys. Don't forget to add the Republic of Whangamomona stamp to your passport there; after all, Whangamomona residents made a major decision to declare their independent republic within the four walls of the hotel back in 1988.
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
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