Between the sparkling surf beaches of the Tasman Sea and the dense native bush of the Forgotten World Highway sits the vibrant and energetic Taranaki region. At its heart – both spiritually and geographically - is picture-perfect Mount Taranaki, offering a focal point for any adventure in the region. But there is much more to explore here, from history and culture to surf breaks and walks to top gardens and events, it will be easy to see why Taranaki prides itself on being a region ‘like no other’.

The Garden of New Zealand
For over 150 years Taranaki has been called the Garden of New Zealand, and it’s easy to see why. The region boasts more Gardens of Significance than any other part of the country, and has many more private and public gardens well worth a visit.

The native garden of Te Kainga Marire has transformed a small urban section into one of only four Gardens of International Significance in New Zealand. Other major gardens in Taranaki are the classical Tupare in New Plymouth, the magnificent Pukeiti, on the slopes of Mt Taranaki, and South Taranaki’s impressive Hollard’s Gardens. New Plymouth’s iconic Pukekura Park is also a must-see for any garden lover, particularly during the TSB  Bank Festival of Lights each summer.

Events
Taranaki offers a vibrant events calendar that makes the most of the region’s natural environment and energetic locals. 

In summer the spectacular TSB Bowl of Brooklands comes alive with world class events and festivals. In recent years the Bowl has hosted the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Sir Elton John, Cliff Richard and the Shadows and Jack Johnson. It’s also home to the iconic WOMAD Festival, which sees hundreds of global performers in this incredible three-day event.

Beyond the Bowl there’s the iconic Parihaka Peace Festival on the Taranaki coast, and the TSB Bank Festival of Lights, which transforms New Plymouth’s central Pukekura Park after dark, and the AmeriCARna festival caters for those with a penchant for US car culture.

In the autumn and winter months the region’s landscape comes to the fore, with surf events from the international ASP Dream Tour surfing competition to the Taranaki Wave Classic windsurfing or round the Mountain cycle races or major rugby test matches at Yarrow Stadium/Stadium Taranaki.  The bi-annual G-TARanaki International Guitar Festival and International Festival of the Arts keep the cultural

In spring the region’s gardens bloom with the annual Taranaki Rhododendron and Garden Festival showcasing more than fifty of the region’s best gardens and offering garden lovers a range of events. There’s also a Fringe Garden Festival at the same time featuring a more eclectic look at Taranaki’s lush gardening culture.

Whenever you’re looking to visit Taranaki, there’s a chance a great event will be waiting for you!

Taranaki’s Unique Natural Environment
Taranaki offers a stunning natural playground. At the heart is Mt Taranaki and Egmont National Park, which provide a range of alpine adventures, from summit climbs for well prepared climbers to adventures in the mythical Goblin Forest on the Mountain’s southern side. Throughout the region many rivers, lakes and parks offer a rich environment for even more outdoor adventures.

Surfing
Almost every road that heads towards the Taranaki coast leads to a surf break. Some of New Zealand’s best surf can be found along Surf Highway 45 between Waitara in the North and Patea in the South. Add to that the wind and kite surfing opportunities, great local board shapers and fact that this is one of the only places in the world where the intrepid adventurer can ski and surf on the same day, and it’s easy to see why Taranaki is a destination for many globetrotting surfers.

Walking
The best way to explore Taranaki is on foot. From epic alpine hikes like the multi-day Pouakai Circuit to a more sedate sunset stroll along New Plymouth’s award winning Coastal Walkway, there is a range of walking adventures to be had in every corner of the province. Download or pick up a copy of Taranaki – A  Walker’s Guide to get you on your way.

The Best of Kiwi Culture
Taranaki offers the best of Kiwi culture. The region is home to New Zealand’s foremost contemporary art gallery the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, which has been wowing audiences with the latest in international art since 1970. New Plymouth’s TART Gallery and Stratford’s Percy Thomson Gallery offer the chance to see artworks by local artisans.

Taranaki’s many museums offer something for everyone. New Plymouth’s Puke Ariki museum, library and i-SITE Visitor Centre tells the story of the region from volcanic inception to the bustling province of today. South Taranaki’s remarkable Tawhiti Museum, widely regarded as New Zealand’s best private museum, is not to be missed. Museums dedicated to Fun-Ho! Toys, Elvis Presley, Horse Ornaments, the sport of Lawn Bowls and Country and Western music can also be found in Taranaki by those looking for a more eclectic cultural adventure.

How to Get to Taranaki
Getting to Taranaki involves a picturesque 4.5 hour drive from the main centres of Auckland and Wellington, or a journey along the historic Forgotten World Highway from Taumarunui and the North Island’s Central Plateau.

Alternately, short direct flights link New Plymouth to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Check out Grabaseat or Air New Zealand for flight times and bookings.

Where to Stay in Taranaki
Taranaki offers a full range of accommodation. From remote country retreats to sophisticated urban crash-pads to cliff top coastal camping grounds, in Taranaki there’s something to suit every taste or budget.  For full details of Taranaki’s accommodation options click here.

Information and Bookings
For more information and to make bookings contact the friendly staff at one of Taranaki’s three i-SITE visitor centres :
i-SITE New Plymouth
Address: Puke Ariki, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth
Phone: 06 759 6060
Email: info@npdc.govt.nz

i-SITE Stratford
Address: Miranda Street, Stratford
Phone: 06 765 6708
Email: info@stratford.govt.nz

i-SITE South Taranaki
Address: 55 High Street, Hawera
Phone: 06 278 8599
Email: visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz

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