Taranaki Information

Mount Taranaki 

Situated slap-bang in the middle of Egmont National Park, Mount Taranaki is still, technically, an active volcano, and a magnificent, outdoor playground for walkers, photographers and just the mere curious. 

Hikers have an enviable choice of over 300 different routes, of varying difficulty and length. An averagely-fit person should allow one full day to make the moderate ascent, and climbers should take care to carry adequate clothing and supplies as the weather is notorious for changing without warning. 

Rock-climbing, serious mountaineering and abseiling are all common activities here. On the eastern slopes of the mountain, the Stratford Mountain Club operates a ski-field, access to which is via a hair-raising flying fox wire (for your equipment, at least...). 

For more advice on the best times to visit and how to access Mount Taranaki, check out the Department of Conservation centres or i-SITEs.

Surf Highway

Because of its semicircular coastline, Taranaki enjoys 180 degrees of all possible swells, offering New Zealand's most consistent surf. 45km southwest of New Plymouth, Opunake is a small coastal town with a world-class surfing beach, which also hosts windsurfing championships. State Highway 45, which hugs the surrounding coastline, is commonly known as the 'Surf Highway', or 'Surf 45', but the volcanic, black sands and amazing rock pools mean that it's not only the 'boardies' who like to come here. 

The Forgotten World Highway 

Otherwise known as State Highway 43, this 150km road stretches from Stratford to Taumarunui,  Distinctive yellow and blue road signs point out different sights along the route, such as the historic and remote towns of Whangamomona and Ohura, and the beauty spots of Tangarakau Gorge and Tahora Saddle. The 180-metre Moki Tunnel is a particular highlight of the route. 

New Plymouth

The region's main city, New Plymouth is known for its sunny climate and prides itself on being mentioned frequently in polls of 'Top Cities To Live'. Art galleries and beautiful parks add to the natural attraction of the beautiful beaches, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Taranaki.

Down at the waterfront, you’ll find the Puke Ariki museum and library; a valuable resource for anyone wanting to find out more about Taranaki's history. Overlooking 6km of coastal walkway, the museum also acts as the city's visitor centre, providing information on accommodation, restaurants and activities, as well as gift shops and imaginative exhibitions. 

At any time of the year, Pukekura Park, near the centre of New Plymouth, offers a place to relax and enjoy the amazing botanical sights of this 'Garden of National Significance'. The park is also a popular events venue, and hosts the annual WOMAD Festival, as well as a free 'Festival of Lights' every December to February, when the park is transformed into an illuminated wonderland. 

Hawera

Taranaki's second-largest town, Hawera is situated along 'Surf 45' and is mostly visited for the Tawhiti Museum, which contains life-sized wax sculptures of local heritage scenes. It's also home to the world's largest dairy factory. Surrounding Hawera are several pretty little beach towns, and the drive between Hawera and New Plymouth is popular with photographers and artists.

Cultural Attractions

• A visit to the Parihaka International Peace Festival  to learn about the Maori passive resistance movement to reclaim stolen land. 
• Perusing the exhibits at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, a contemporary art museum in New Plymouth. 
• Exploring the interactive and engaging historical re-enactment exhibits at the Tawhiti Museum near Hawera.
• Reliving your childhood at the Fun Ho! National Toy Museum near Inglewood. 
• Experiencing a little piece of Hollywood at Mount Taranaki – where The Last Samurai was filmed.

Five Things To Do

Taranaki Virtual Tour and Video

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