Moki Tunnel is a historic tunnel located in Tahora, New Zealand, and is a popular tourist attraction.
The tunnel is also known as the 'Hobbit's Hole' and is 180 meters long. It is a single-lane tunnel, so drivers must put their lights on and check for oncoming traffic before driving through. Moki Tunnel is part of the Forgotten World Highway, New Zealand's oldest heritage trail, which is a remote, mysterious, and scenic 155-kilometer-long highway. The highway winds over four mountain saddles, alongside the spectacular Tangarakau Gorge, and passes through some rugged, beautiful countryside. It climbs three saddles, including the Strathmore Saddle, the Whangamomona Saddle, and the Tahora Saddle.
To access Moki Tunnel, visitors can turn off the highway at Moki Road, just north of the tunnel, and drive 15 kilometers to the start of the walk. Visitors can also admire the tunnel from the outside and take photos. The tunnel is a popular spot for photography, especially for those who are fans of the Lord of the Rings movies. The tunnel's unique shape and size make it an ideal location for taking photos that look like they are straight out of a fantasy movie.
Moki Tunnel is not the only attraction on the Forgotten World Highway. Visitors can also visit Mount Damper Falls, an 85-meter waterfall, by taking a detour along Moki Forest Road. The road continues on through the historic and very narrow Moki Tunnel. Visitors can also stop at Lauren's Lavender Farm, a small lavender farm with a cafe and shop, located a short drive from Taumarunui. The farm is only open in the summer, and entry is free. Visitors can also visit Nukunuku Museum, a quirky museum that is home to relics from the region's past.
The Forgotten World Highway is suitable for all vehicles, including motorhomes. The road is mostly paved but can be slippery when wet. There is a short unsealed section of road, but it is not a 4x4 trail. The highway is a leisurely drive through numerous different types of environments, including tussocky desert, rivers, lakes, and volcanic cones. Visitors can also admire the last saddle of the highway, which overlooks mountains, railway tunnels, and three Maori Pa sites.
In conclusion, Moki Tunnel is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling along the Forgotten World Highway. The tunnel's unique shape and size make it an ideal location for taking photos, and visitors can also admire it from the outside. The Forgotten World Highway is a scenic and remote highway that winds over four mountain saddles, alongside the spectacular Tangarakau Gorge, and passes through some rugged, beautiful countryside. Visitors can also visit other attractions along the highway, including Mount Damper Falls, Lauren's Lavender Farm, and Nukunuku Museum.