Taranaki’s Must Do’s
Your guide to the best experiences, attractions, activities,
eats and drinks, as voted by the Taranaki community.
Visitor information, maps, souvenirs, internet facilities, and
accommodation, activity and transport bookings for Taranaki
and all of New Zealand are available from:
NEW PLYMOUTH i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE
Puke Ariki, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth
Email: info@newplymouth.govt.nz
Phone: 0800 639 759
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.00am-6.00pm.
Wednesday from 9.00am-9.00pm.
Weekends and public holidays 9.00am-5.00pm.
STRATFORD i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE
Prospero Place and Miranda Street, Stratford
Email: info@stratford.govt.nz
Phone: 06 765 6708 or 0800 765 6708
Hours: Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.00pm.
Weekends and public holidays 10.00am-3.00pm.
SOUTH TARANAKI i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE
55 High Street, Hawera
Email: visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz
Phone: 06 278 8599
Hours: Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.00pm.
Weekends and public holidays 10.00am-3.00pm.
All iSITES are closed Christmas day.
For mor
e information visit:
www.visit
.tar
anaki.info
Taranaki’
s
Must Do’s
Your guide to the best e
xperiences, attractions, activities,
eats and drinks, as voted by the Taranaki community
.
RESTAURANTS
Book a table and dine out at one of the region’s favourite
restaurants or bistros.
ARBORIO
Italian inspired bistro menu overlooking the coast.
Puke Ariki, 65 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 759 1241
BELLA VITA
A range of Italian inspired dishes to suit all palates.
146 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 758 3393
DELUXE DINER
An American-style diner with large portions and fantastic
service. 36 Leach St, New Plymouth. 06 757 5300
GUSTO
A-la-carte menu on the waterfront. Breakwater Bay,
Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth. 06 759 8133
INDIA TODAY
Traditional Indian tandoor restaurant.
40 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 769 9117
MARBLES BUFFET AND THE ROCKS
Situated at the Devon Hotel, enjoy fabulous family-friendly
buffet dining at Marbles Buffet or a cosy bar at The Rocks.
390 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 9099
SALT
Stunning views are rivalled by the a-la-carte menu.
1 Egmont St, New Plymouth. 06 769 5304
STRATFORD MOUNTAIN HOUSE
Dine in a truly unique location on the slopes of the mountain.
Pembroke Rd, Stratford. 06 765 6100
SUSHI NINJA
Fresh and authentic, rolled sushi, bento, donburi and more.
89 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 1392
TABLE
Luxurious décor accompany an extensive wine list and seasonal
menu. 71 Brougham St, New Plymouth. 06 758 6423
CAFÉS
We love our cafés in Taranaki – here are some of the favourite
spots for a coffee and a catch up.
BACH ON BREAKWATER
Extensive menu, gluten free options and a seaside local.
Breakwater Bay, Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth.
06 769 6967
CAFÉ WINDSOR
A trend-setting café with a legendary brunch menu.
1 Kelly St, Inglewood. 06 756 6665
CHAOS
Huge cabinet selection, famous hot chocolate and fun décor.
36 Brougham St, New Plymouth. 06 759 8080
FEDERAL CAFÉ
Retro vibe and great menu in this suburban staple.
440 Devon St East, Strandon. 06 757 8147
INFLAME ELTHAM
Coffee, home-baked goods, soup, curries and more.
139 High St, Eltham. 06 764 8272
MANOU’S
Unique and fun. Great food and a spectacular view.
Breakwater Bay, Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth.
06 757 4322
OZONE BEANSTORE
A coffee lover’s dream; straight from the on-site roastery.
47A King St, New Plymouth. 06 757 5054
PETIT PARIS
French style patisserie, décor and menu.
34 Currie St, New Plymouth. 06 759 0398
RHUBARB CAFÉ ELTHAM
Meet, eat and relax. 158 High St, Eltham. 06 764 8101
SEASONAL OUTDOOR CAFES
In summer, choose food with a view:
Paris Plage – East End Reserve, New Plymouth. 06 759 0398
Holy Guacamole – Tasman Parade, Oakura. 021 204 9983
BARS
Fancy a drink? Here are the region’s favourite watering holes.
CROWDED HOUSE
Enjoy the atmosphere or watch a game at this vibrant sports
bar. 93-99 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 4921
FREDERIC’S
Popular with the after work crowd ‘Fred’s’ is cosy and
welcoming. 34 Egmont St, New Plymouth. 06 759 1227
OUR PLACE
Cool and stylish, grab a booth or a couch and chill.
75 Devon St East, New Plymouth 06 758 8561
SNUG LOUNGE
A very stylish lounge bar in an iconic venue.
124 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 757 9130
THE BLACK HARP
A trendy Irish pub full of music and shenanigans.
31 Gover St, New Plymouth. 06 758 5373
THE GOOD HOME
Seven unique spaces to enjoy in this popular pub and bistro.
21 Ariki St, New Plymouth. 06 758 4740
THE HOUR GLASS
Specialising in craft beer, quality wine, classic cocktails and a
delicious tapas menu. 49 Liardet St, New Plymouth.
06 758 2299
THE MAYFAIR
Spacious and stylish, this old theatre has vintage cool and often
features live events.
69 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 759 2088
TREEHOUSE BAR AND BISTRO
Experience home away from home with a great atmosphere and
a roaring fire. 471 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 751 1848
WESTBAR
A stylish bar situated next door to Yarrow Stadium. 41 Tukapa
St, Westown, New Plymouth. 06 758 4430
TAKEAWAYS
Want to grab a quick bite or treat? Check out these
favourites.
BLOW FISH TAKEAWAY
Fish and chips, Chinese and more.
406 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 759 1314
DAVEY’S PATCH PIZZA
Pizzas are the name of the game.
147 High St, Eltham. 06 764 8747
FUNK FISH GRILL
Huge burgers, crispy chips and a great seafood selection.
32 Matai St, Inglewood, New Plymouth. 06 756 7287
IONA DAIRY ICECREAM
Enjoy super-sized ice creams in all your favourite flavours.
204 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 758 0265
NUMERO UNO PIZZAS
Big menu, big pizza, big flavours!
483 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 0005
OKATO FISH AND CHIP SHOP
The favourite fish and chip shop down the coast, perfect after a
surf. 63 Carthew St, Okato. 06 752 4363
OSCARS INGLEWOOD TAKEAWAY
Gourmet pies, doughnuts, fudge, scones and fish and chips.
Rata St, Inglewood. 06 756 7574
PITA PIT
A pita pocket filled with all of your favourite ingredients.
63 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 757 4748
TERRY’S TAKEAWAYS
Pick up for your fish, chips, burgers, hot chicken and Chinese
food here and then enjoy a picnic by the sea.
309 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 758 4807
YOGET
Frozen yoghurt meets all of the fruit, nuts, lollies and sauces
that you can imagine. 61 Devon St West, New Plymouth.
06 757 9299
MUST EATS & DRINKS
There are many great spots in Taranaki to wine and dine, grab a quick meal, sit with a coffee or catch up over a drink. The locals recommend the following:
Mokau
Whangamomona
Te Roti
Eltham
Hawera
Normanby
Manaia
Kaupokonui
Otakeho
Oeo
Pihama
Opunake
Oaonui
Rahotu
Pungarehu
Warea
Okato
Oakura
Waitara
Urenui
Inglewood
Egmont Village
Tariki
Kaponga
Toko
Stratford
Strathmore
Tongaporutu
Parininihi
Patea
To Waverley
& Waitotara
To Hamilton
New
Plymouth
MOUNT TARANAKI
OPUNAKE BEACH
OAKURA BEACH
STRATFORD
SPEEDWAY
TAWHITI MUSEUM
STONEY OAKS
TO MOKAU RIVER
CRUISES & RIVER TOURS
VINTAGE SHOPS
PIONEER VILLAGE
PUKEITI
LAKE ROTOKARE
FUN HO
TOYS
NORTH EGMONT
VISITOR CENTRE
WATER TOWER
WILKIES POOLS
DAWSON FALLS
LAKE
MANGAMAHOE
DAM DROPPING
HOLLARD
GARDENS
CAPE EGMONT LIGHTHOUSE
PARITUTU
BACK BEACH
TUPARE
POUAKAI ZOO
BOWLARAMA
BREAKER BAY CHARTERS
BROOKLANDS ZOO
CHADDY’S CHARTERS
COASTAL WALKWAY
FITZROY BEACH (AND POOL)
GOVETT-BREWSTER ART GALLERY
LEE BREAKWATER
LEN LYE CENTRE
PUKE ARIKI
PUKEKURA PARK
PUKEKURA RACEWAY
RUMPUS ROOM
SEASIDE MARKETS
SILK SPA
TARANAKI CATHEDRAL TOUR
TARANAKI MINERAL POOLS
TE HENUI WALKWAY TO TE KAINGA MARIRE
TE REWA REWA BRIDGE
TODD ENERGY AQUATIC CENTRE
WIND WANDERERS
NEW PLYMOUTH
EVENTS
Taranaki has a wonderfully vibrant events calendar, with
something for everyone. Here are some of our favourites,
throughout the year.
PLEASE NOTE: All information correct at time of press, but operator
services, hours, and contact details may change without notice.
C7 DESIGN/VT0388/04-15 Photos: Supplied by Rob Tucker, Venture Taranaki, Peter Florence, Mark Harris
SANTA’S CHOICE
WAITARA WEST BEACH
& LOOKOUT WALK
ARTY LOO
WHITECLIFFS WALK
WHANGAMOMONA
HOTEL & FORGOTTEN
WORLD ADVENTURES
OAKURA ARTS TRAIL
BECK
HELICOPTERS
NGAMOTU LINKS
GOLF COURSE
WESTOWN
GOLF CLUB
3
3
TE REWA REWA BRIDGE
HIKING ON MT TARANAKI
SURF HIGHWAY 45
NEW PLYMOUTH
FISHING AT LEE BREAKWATER
FORGOTTEN WORLD HIGHWAY
NEW PLYMOUTH COASTAL WALKWAY
A&P SHOWS
Experience the magic of rural Taranaki with
motorcycle displays, sheep racing, ponies,
dog trials, rides, vegetables and baking and
plenty for the kids.
Egmont A&P Show
Where: 6 Burnside Ave, Hawera
When: Third weekend of Nov. each year
Contact: 06 278 8613,
www.egmontshowgrounds.org.nz
Stratford A&P Show
Where: Flint Rd, Stratford
When: Third weekend of Nov. each year
Contact: 06 765 6173,
www.stratfordshow.co.nz
AMERICARNA
A celebration of American cars and culture,
complete with parades, displays and family
fun.
When: Feb/Mar.
Contact: 06 759 0027,
www.americarna.com
BOWL OF BROOKLANDS
SUMMER CONCERTS
Head along to a world-class concert at this
natural outdoor amphitheatre.
Where: Brooklands Park Drive,
New Plymouth
Contact: 06 759 6060
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
A wonderland of lights, displays and events
in the iconic Pukekura Park.
When: Dec/Jan
Contact: 06 759 6060,
www.festivaloflights.co.nz
NZ TATTOO AND ART FESTIVAL
Australasia’s biggest tattoo event featuring
hundreds of the world’s finest tattoo artists
and tattoo models plus art displays, stalls,
food and entertainment.
When: Nov
Contact: 021 311 462, www.nztattooart.com
POWERCO GARDEN SPECTACULAR
NZ’s premier spring festival offers
superb gardens and a stimulating events
programme.
When: Oct/Nov
Contact: 06 759 8412,
www.gardenfestnz.co.nz
SEE A SHOW AT THE TSB SHOWPLACE
Watch a theatrical or musical
performance in the grand old theatre.
Where: 92-100 Devon St West,
New Plymouth
Contact: 06 759 6712,
www.tsbshowplace.co.nz
TARANAKI INTERNATIONAL
ARTS FESTIVAL
This biennial festival offers a range of
exciting theatre, cabaret, music and dance
performances.
When: Aug/Sept
Contact: 06 759 8412,
www.taft.co.nz
TROPFEST
The world’s largest short film festival is an
outdoor screening of the best of NZ film.
When: Jan/Feb. Where: Brooklands Park
Drive, New Plymouth
Contact: 06 759 8412,
www.tropfest.co.nz
WHANGAMOMONA REPUBLIC DAY
A fun-filled day of country-style
entertainment celebrates the township’s
self-declared republic status.
When: Biennial, Jan/Feb
Contact: 06 762 5552
WOMAD
Three days of music and culture from world
music superstars.
When: March
Contact: 06 759 8412,
www.taft.co.nz/womad
SUNSET AT FITZROY BEACH
MEETING OF
THE WATERS
TE NGUTU GOLF COURSE
PERCY THOMSON
GALLERY
GOVETT-BREWSTER ART GALLERY
& THE LEN LYE CENTRE
From July 25, the esteemed Govett-
Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre
will present stunning contemporary art
in a spectacular combined new building.
Check the website for information and
exhibitions. Where: Cnr of King and
Queen Sts, New Plymouth.
Contact: www.govettbrewster.com
HAPPY CHADDY’S CHARTERS
Join colourful captain Chaddy aboard
his restored English lifeboat for a
cruise through the Sugar Loaf Island
Marine Reserve, exploring volcanic
remnants and New Zealand’s northern-
most fur seal colony. Where: Ocean
View Parade, Port Taranaki, New
Plymouth. When: 8am-4pm daily
(Sept-June). Contact: 06 758 9133,
www.chaddyscharters.co.nz
HAWERA WATER TOWER
Built in 1914, Hawera’s now iconic
Water Tower was a defence against
fires which had ravaged the town.
These days its 215 steps lead to
spectacular views over the town and
surrounding district. Where: 55 High
St, Hawera. When: 10am-4pm daily.
Contact: 06 278 8599
HELICOPTER FLIGHT OVER MT TARANAKI
Mount Taranaki stands proudly at the
heart of Taranaki, both geographically
and spiritually. A great way to view the
picture-perfect peak is by air.
Who: Beck Helicopters
Where: 4512 Mountain Rd, Eltham.
Contact: 06 764 7073,
www.heli.co.nz
LAKE MANGAMAHOE
Pack a picnic and take a picturesque
forest walk or fun-fuelled mountain
bike ride around the Mangamahoe
hydro lake. Where: SH3, just south
of New Plymouth. When: 7am-6pm
(8.30pm Daylight Savings).
Contact: 06 759 6060
MOKAU RIVER JOURNEY
While technically not in Taranaki, trips
up the magnificent Mokau River are
popular with locals and visitors alike.
Where: Mokau township, SH3 North.
When: Bookings essential
Mokau River Cruises,
www.mokaurivercruises.co.nz
Mokau River Tours,
www.mokauriver.co.nz
NEW PLYMOUTH COASTAL WALKWAY
Walk, skate or cycle the international
award winning 13km New Plymouth
Coastal Walkway, from Port Taranaki
in the west, past the Wind Wand to
the stunning Te Rewa Rewa Bridge and
beyond to Bell Block. Best done with
friends and ice-cream! Where: Along
New Plymouth’s coastline.
Contact: 06 759 6060
NORTH EGMONT VISITOR CENTRE
Comprehensive displays tell Egmont
National Park’s volcanic, natural and
human history. The best place to start
your mountain adventure.
Where: Egmont Rd end.
When: 8am-4pm daily (closed
Christmas Day)
Contact: 06 756 0990
OUR FAVOURITE BEACHES
Round up the family for some beach
cricket, swimming, surfing, kite-surfing
or stand-up paddle boarding at one of
Taranaki’s favourite beaches.
Where: Back Beach, Centennial Drive,
New Plymouth; Fitzroy Beach, Beach
St, New Plymouth; Oakura Beach, Jans
Terrace, Oakura; Opunake Beach, Beach
Rd, Opunake; Waitara West Beach, off
Centennial Ave, Waitara.
FAVOURITE GOLF COURSES
With 20 fantastic golf courses on offer
around the mountain try the scenic
Ngamotu Links, Westown or Te Ngutu
courses.
Contact: 06 755 1349,
www.taranakigolf.co.nz
FISH FOR YOUR SUPPER
There are many great spots around the
region to cast a rod. From lakes and
rivers to surf casting off the beach, or
off the back of a boat – dinner will be
well-earned. A couple of our favourites
include: Lee Breakwater – Perfect
for family fishing, ship-watching and
enjoying the views. Where: Ocean View
Parade, Port Taranaki. Breaker Bay
fishing charters – Head out to sea for
some game fishing and bag a big’un.
Where: Ocean View Parade, Port
Taranaki. Contact: 027 687 9189
FOR THE KIDS
Taranaki is a fantastic place for kids.
There are dozens of public outdoor
playgrounds dotted around the
mountain (find out more on the New
Plymouth, Stratford and South Taranaki
District Council websites) otherwise
the Rumpus Room has three play
structures catering to different ages,
party rooms and a café.
Where: Corner Gill and High Sts,
New Plymouth. Contact: 06 757 4090,
www.rumpus-room.co.nz
FUN HO! NATIONAL TOY MUSEUM
Fun Ho! Toys hold a special place in our
history and have become a sought after
classic. Over 3,000 toys are on display.
Where: 25 Rata St, Inglewood.
When: 10am-4pm daily.
Contact:
06 756 7030, www.funhotoys.co.nz
GET A STRIKE AT BOWLARAMA
The perfect rainy day activity,
Bowlarama features a 16-lane, fully
automatic tenpin bowling centre with a
glow in the dark indoor mini-putt golf
course. Where: 188 Devon St West,
New Plymouth. When: 1pm-9.30pm
Monday, 10am-9.30pm Tuesday and
Wednesday, 10am-10pm Thursday,
10am-10.30pm Friday and Saturday,
10am-9pm Sunday.
Contact: 06 757 8169,
www.bowlaramanp.co.nz
PIONEER VILLAGE
Discover the lifestyles of Taranaki’s
pioneering settlers at this recreated
village, complete with cottages,
businesses and a fascinating hospital
museum. A replica train runs on
weekends or by arrangement.
Where: SH3, 1km South of Stratford.
When: 10am-4pm daily
Contact: 06 765 5399,
www.pioneervillage.co.nz
PUKE ARIKI
Uncover Taranaki’s rich heritage at this
innovative information and ideas hub,
located in the heart of New Plymouth
– the world’s first integrated museum,
visitor centre and library.
Where: 1 Ariki St, New Plymouth.
When: Weekdays 9am-6pm,
Wednesday to 9pm. Weekends and
Public Holidays 9am-5pm (library
closed public holidays).
Contact: 06 759 6060,
www.pukeariki.com
PUKEKURA PARK
Wander through the inner-city
botanical wonderland to discover
lakes, a zoo, historic tea house,
playground and countless short walks,
as well as Fernery and Display Houses
and a special Japanese inspired
hillside. Where: Pukekura Park, Fillis
St, New Plymouth. When: 7.30am-
7pm and 7.30am-8pm during daylight
savings. Contact: 06 759 6060
PUKEKURA RACEWAY
Watch horse racing action from the
grandstand or the La Mer Lounge at
Pukekura Raceway. There are 16 race
days a year with each offering a unique
experience. Where: Rogan St,
New Plymouth. Contact: 06 757 5759,
www.taranakiracing.co.nz
RELAX AND TREAT YOURSELF
Book in for some rest and relaxation
after an action-packed day in Taranaki.
Silk Spa – An award-winning day spa
offering everything from massage to
waxing and specialised facial and body
treatments. Where: 134 Carrington St,
New Plymouth. Contact: 06 769 5570,
www.silkspa.co.nz
Taranaki Mineral Pools – Uses 29,000
year old mineral water that was
discovered in 1909 in an early search
for oil. Private pools are filled with hot
water on arrival.
Where: 8 Bonithon Ave, New Plymouth.
Contact: 06 759 1666,
www.pureone.co.nz
TARANAKI’S MUST DO EXPERIENCES
There is no shortage of things to see, do, eat and drink in Taranaki, but how do you know which are a ‘Must Do’? You ask the
locals! We did just that and got thousands of votes for the things visitors to the region simply must do. This publication lists
the favourites. Explore, experience and discover the many fantastic experiences and places Taranaki has to offer, and see why
it really is the region like no other.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.VISIT.TARANAKI.INFO OR YOUR CLOSEST ISITE VISITOR CENTRE
ART AND ARTS TRAILS
Taranaki is a source of true inspiration
for many talented local artists.
The Oakura Arts Trail takes place
around November each year but
there is a self-guided trail available by
arrangement if you wish to visit artist’s
workshops and art spaces throughout
the year. www.oakuraarts.co.nz
The Taranaki Arts Trail goes all
the way around the mountain every
June. For more about the artists
and event updates, visit
www.taranakiartstrail.co.nz
Percy Thomson Gallery provides an
ever-changing programme of exhibitions
by local, national and international
artists. Where: Miranda St, Stratford
When: 10.30am-4pm Mon-Fri,
10.30am-3pm Sat/Sun
Contact: 06 765 0917
www.percythomsongallery.org.nz
CLIMB PARITUTU
Get a bird’s eye view of New Plymouth
and its coastline from the top of this
distinctive volcanic outcrop. Sturdy
footwear advised. Where: Centennial
Drive, New Plymouth
DAWSON FALLS AND WILKIES POOLS
Dawson Falls is a stunning 18 metre
high waterfall situated 10 minutes from
the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre through
lush native forest. A little further up
the track, Wilkies Pools is a series of
natural plunge pools where you can
swim in pristine alpine water. They can
be accessed via a 60 minute bush track
or via a 20 minute wheel-chair friendly
walkway. Where: Dawson Falls Visitor
Centre, Manaia Rd, Egmont National
Park. Contact: 06 759 0350
DISCOVER THE FORGOTTEN WORLD
New Zealand’s oldest Heritage
Trail offers an unparalleled journey
through our pioneering past and rich
landscape. More than 30 points of
interest along the 155km trail including
the historic Whangamomona Hotel
offer an adventure like no other. To
see the Forgotten World Highway from
another perspective, book in a rail cart
tour with Forgotten World Adventures.
Where: SH43 – between Stratford
and Taumaranui via Whangamomona.
Contact: 07 895 7181,
www.forgottenworldadventures.co.nz
ELTHAM ARTY LOO
Situated in the centre of Eltham,
the public toilet is a sight to behold!
Featuring art from a range of local
artists, you’ll be glad you stopped.
Where: Corner of King Edward St and
State Highway 3, Eltham.
Contact: 06 278 0555
SEE NATIVE FLORA & FAUNA AT LAKE ROTOKARE
A stunning 230 hectare predator free environment rich
in native flora and fauna and home to many endangered
species including kiwi and the long-tailed bat.
Where: Rotokare Rd (12kms east of Eltham)
When: All day, every day. Please remember to stop before
entering the gates to check your vehicles, bags and boats
for pests and predators and leave pets at home.
Contact: 06 764 8500, www.rotokare.org.nz
EXPLORE MT TARANAKI AND
EGMONT NATIONAL PARK
Discover the legend and landscape
of iconic Mt Taranaki and encounter
a view like no other. Summit Climb –
Reach the 2518m summit. A guided hike
is recommended. Pouakai Crossing
– The best day hike in the west with
stunning forests and open alpine areas.
Pouakai Circuit – An overnight circular
hike through lush forest, sub-alpine
and alpine vegetation zones.
Where: Egmont National Park. When:
Year round – though go prepared for
changeable weather conditions.
Contact: 06 756 0990
SPECIALTY SHOPPING
There are many great specialty retail
shops in the region where you will find
some cool treasures. Try something
a bit different and check out: Santa’s
Choice – If you enjoy getting into the
Christmas spirit, this place is for you.
Open early October to December or by
appointment at other times.
Where: 63 Egmont Rd, New Plymouth.
Contact: 06 755 1934
Eltham vintage shops – Sharpen
up your look with a touch of vintage.
Eltham’s many vintage shops stock
everything from antique furniture to
fine jewellery. Where: Eltham, SH3.
STOCKCAR NIGHT AT STRATFORD
Grab a hotdog and chips and watch
the action at the Stratford Speedway.
Where: Flint Rd, Stratford.
When: Saturdays, Oct-Apr.
Contact: 06 765 5693,
www.stratford-speedway.co.nz
SURF HIGHWAY 45
Almost every road that heads towards the coastline leads
to a pristine uncrowded wave. Epic surf, art studios,
historic sites, spectacular scenery and cosy cafés make
this road trip a great adventure. If you’re looking for more,
make sure you visit one of the last working lighthouses
in the country. The Cape Egmont Lighthouse was once at
the heart of Taranaki’s land disputes. Where: The 105km
coastal road between New Plymouth and Hawera. Cape
Egmont Lighthouse is situated at the end of Cape Rd,
Pungarehu.
SURFING AND KITE SURFING A TARANAKI WAVE
Taranaki is the home of Kiwi surf. Stop by one of the
region’s great surf shops for a board, surf report and a
glimpse through Taranaki’s surf history before hitting the
waves. Where: Surf Highway 45
GLORIOUS GARDENS
Taranaki boasts many parks and gardens worthy of
celebration. Start with these and see Venture Taranaki’s
Parks and Gardens booklet for many more gardens around
the region.
Pukeiti – This expansive, internationally renowned
rhododendron garden nestled in the foothills of Mt Taranaki
offers many picturesque garden walks. Where: 2290
Carrington Rd, New Plymouth. When: Daily 9am-5pm.
Contact: 06 765 7127,
www.pukeiti.org.nz
Tupare – Sculpted from a hillside overlooking the
Waiwhakaiho River, this beautiful garden is on the outskirts
of New Plymouth. Where: 487 Mangorei Rd, New Plymouth.
When: 9am-5pm. Contact: www.trc.govt.nz
Hollard Gardens – A horticultural oasis in the heart of dairy
country, Hollard’s is an intriguing and relaxing destination
year round. Where: 1686 Upper Manaia Rd, Kaponga.
When: 9am-5pm. Contact: www.trc.govt.nz
SWIM
When you want to make a splash,
dip into one of the region’s favourite
swimming pools or river swimming
holes. Todd Energy aquatic centre –
25m indoor, 50m outdoor, wave pool,
sauna, spa and hydroslides.
Where: Tisch Avenue, New Plymouth.
Contact: 06 759 6060
Meeting of the Waters – The meeting
of the Waiwhakaiho River and
Mangamahoe hydro race offers calm
swimming spots and turbulent rapids
frequented by white-water kayakers.
Where: Waiwhakaiho Rd, SH3 just south
of New Plymouth.
Dam Dropping – Experience the thrill
of riding down a historic 8m hydro
dam on the Waingongoro River with
this locally invented adrenaline rush.
Where: Normanby Dam.
TARANAKI CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST MARY’S
Taranaki Cathedral is New Zealand’s
oldest stone church; a centre of peace
and reconciliation of unique historical
and cultural significance. Visitors
always welcome.
Where: 37 Vivian St, New Plymouth.
When: 8am-5pm daily (service times
vary). Organ recitals: 12.15pm, 3rd
Thursday of the month (Feb-Nov).
Contact: 06 758 3111,
www.taranakicathedral.org.nz
TAWHITI MUSEUM AND TRADERS AND WHALERS
Sample Taranaki’s heritage through
uniquely realistic and engaging
displays, including hundreds of life-
size and miniature models, countless
artefacts, a working railway and the
new ‘Traders & Whalers’ exhibition that
has to be experienced to be believed.
Where: 401 Ohangai Rd, Hawera.
When: Normal hours: Fri-Mon 10am-
4pm. Summer: (26 Dec-end Jan) open
every day, 10-4pm. Winter: (June/
July/Aug) 10am-4pm, Sundays only.
Contact: 06 278 6837,
www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz
TE REWA REWA BRIDGE
This international award winning
bridge across the Waiwhakaiho River
is rapidly becoming one of Taranaki’s
iconic places and offers a spectacularly
framed view of Mount Taranaki.
Where: Via
the New Plymouth Coastal
Walkway or at the end of Clemow Rd,
Fitzroy
THE SEASIDE MARKET
An upbeat beach market where you’ll
find a careful selection of art, vintage,
homewares, boutique crafts, live
music and delicious food. Where:
Ngamotu Beach, Oceanview Parade,
New Plymouth. When: 9am-3pm, first
Sunday of the month. Contact: www.
facebook.com/theseasidemarket
WALK THE TE HENUI WALKWAY TO TE KAINGA MARIRE
If you’re looking for something different
to experience, try walking from the
Coastal Walkway and turning off by the
East End Reserve to discover the Te
Henui Walkway. Fascinating signboards
tell interesting historic stories along
the route and lead you to Te Kainga
Marire, a beautiful privately owned
garden that has been named one of
only a few 6 Star Gardens by the New
Zealand Gardens Trust. Where: Te
Kainga Marire, 15 Spencer Pl, New
Plymouth. When: 9am-5pm daily from
September to April. Contact: 06 758
8693, www.tekaingamarire.co.nz
WHITECLIFFS WALKWAY
Take a scenic journey through open
farmland and dramatic coastal forest
to experience spectacular sea and
mountain views. See our Walkers Guide
booklet for more information. Where:
Pukearuhe Rd, North of Urenui When:
Keep to low tide – beach access is
limited at high tide.
WIND WANDERERS
The perfect eco-friendly outdoor
activity for couples, families and
friends of all fitness levels. Hire a
multi-person pedal bike and cycle the
Coastal Walkway, taking in fantastic
seaside views. Where: East End
Reserve, Nobs Line, New Plymouth
When: 9.30am – late daily (weather
permitting). Contact: 027 358 1182,
info@windwanderers.co.nz
ZOO VISIT
Taranaki has more than its fair share
of zoos. Brooklands Zoo – is a free,
family focused zoo. Where: Brooklands
Drive, New Plymouth. When: 9am-5pm
daily (closed Christmas Day) Contact:
06 759 060, www.newplymouthnz.com
Pouakai Zoo – has an extensive
range of exotic wildlife. Where: 1306
Carrington Rd, New Plymouth.
When: Tues-Sun 10am-4.30pm.
Contact: 06 7533788,
www.facebook.com/PouakaiZoo
Stoney Oaks wildlife Park – is a unique
wildlife park that adopts a hands-on
approach. Where: Cnr Kaimata and
Bristol Rds, Inglewood. When: Opening
hours vary.
Contact: 06 756 7624,
www.rarebreeds.co.nz/stoneyoaks.html