Although Taranaki may be a little off the beaten track, its towns and villages are vibrant and appealing. The main centre of the region, New Plymouth, is an attractive smaller city on the west coast that’s well worth visiting.
Enjoying a beautiful coastal setting, with views to Mount Taranaki, and brimming with great eateries, cafés, gardens, shops and cultural attractions, New Plymouth is a cosmopolitan small city.
On the waterfront is the museum, Puke Ariki, and just around the corner is the acclaimed Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. The TSB Bowl of Brooklands hosts numerous high-profile performers from New Zealand and around the world in its atmospheric outdoor amphitheatre during world-class events such as WOMAD.
Experience New Plymouth
- New Plymouth is a surprisingly vibrant town that’s well worth exploring
- The town has an excellent programme of events – even big names such as Elton John have performed here
- A cultured town, New Plymouth has an acclaimed contemporary art gallery, the Govett-Brewster
- There is a good range of accommodation here, including some charming boutique hotels.
You´ll ❤️ these great things to see & do…
- Learn about local culture and heritage at the waterfront Puke Ariki centre
- Watch Romeo and Juliet emerge from the Glockenspiel clock in Stratford
- Browse a diverse and high-quality range of cafés and shops in New Plymouth
- Wander (or cycle, or rollerblade) along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
- Hit the road and check out the rolling surf beaches along Surf Highway 45
- Hike under the watchful eye of Mount Taranaki in Egmont National Park
Useful New Plymouth Resources