As Easter and the school holidays approach, now is the perfect time to plan your Taranaki escape. Taranaki has you covered with exciting activities for all ages, breathtaking natural surroundings, and delicious delights.
Discover our TOP ways to enjoy a getaway, like no other:
1. Indulge in Easter delights:
Treat your taste buds to a delightful array of Easter goodies and mouth-watering meals. From artisanal baking, locally hand-crafted chocolates, and vibrant family-friendly restaurants and cafes, Taranaki has something to satisfy every craving.
Sink your teeth into freshly baked hot cross buns from Baked by Blanche, indulge in Public Catering’s spiced delights, or treat yourself to Billow Bakery’s sourdough creations. Those with a sweet tooth can't look past the delicious flavours of Giles Chocolatier or Malva Chocolates, while Knead Donuts is home to some of the most famous donuts in Taranaki.
2. Family Fun Galore:
Adventure awaits in Taranaki, with no shortage of whānau-friendly activities.
Explore the Stratford Bike Park on two wheels, where kids can zip around the children's pump track and learn about road safety at the working model-traffic lights. For the more adventurous, head to Lake Mangamahoe for thrilling mountain biking trails and panoramic views of the majestic maunga.
Dive into the ultimate wildlife adventure with a cruise on Chaddy's Charters around the culturally significant Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Reserve, along with stand-up paddle boards and bikes available to hire. Enjoy some friendly competition at Inglewood Mini Golf, or spend the day at The Hideaway offering a Bathurst-themed mini putt, luge, and Holden Car Museum.
Heading indoors? Step back in time at Everybody’s Theatre in Ōpunake, this elegant heritage movie theatre hosts all the latest new releases along with family classics. Or book a screening to watch The Mountain, a new heartfelt film where you can see our very own Taranaki Maunga on the big screen.
3. Explore the great outdoors
Get outside and enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Taranaki. Explore the magical woodlands at Te Po Po Gardens, or wander through the vibrant trails at Hollard Gardens, home to one of the most loved children’s playgrounds in South Taranaki. Meanwhile the Treehouse Trail at Pukeiti offers an exciting adventure for kids, allowing them to uncover the native creatures that inhabit this breathtaking garden and rainforest paradise.
Find more parks and gardens to explore here.
The outdoor adventures continue at Lake Rotokare, a sprawling 230-hectare predator-free haven. Here you'll find stunning native flora, abundant birdlife, tranquil wetlands, and scenic walking trails, all surrounding a picturesque recreational lake.
Pack a picnic and relax at one of the region’s many scenic spots, from Lucy’s Gully to the Merrilands Domain river flat, or Ōpunake Beach.
Discover more walking trails and hikes here.
4. Cultural experiences
Immerse yourself in vibrant arts and culture with a visit to one of the many renowned museums or art galleries.
Explore the captivating exhibits at Aotea Utanganui Museum of South Taranaki or embark on a journey through time at Tawhiti Museum, where you can uncover the rich history of our region, complete with an emersive underground boat canal ride.
Check out the Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum (TATAM) for an interactive array of hands-on exhibits and items from the past, bound to entertain the whole family for hours.
A trip to Taranaki isn’t complete without a visit to New Plymouth’s Puke Ariki, followed by discovering the creative genius of Len Lye at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre where kinetic displays and contemporary art await. Don't forget to pick up a copy of Ziggle!, a bumper art activity book brimming with ideas for the kids.
5. For the adults
Need some me time? Drift into tranquillity at the Flotation Sanctuary or get the creativity flowing with an evening at Pinot and Picasso. Discover the art of gin distilling on a Juno Gin Tasting and Distillery Tour, or unwind over a delicious meal and craft beverage at Shining Peak Brewery.
Enjoy a spot of retail therapy all around the Maunga, pick up an artsy keepsake at Kina NZ Design + Art Space, Percy’s Place, or Gallery Pātea. Discover beautiful boutique homewares at Home Love + Mette K, Bianca Lorenne, or Cottage Lane. If you’re after something more thrifty, head to Eltham, home to an eclectic array of pre-loved and vintage stores.
6. Exciting events and festivities:
From Easter egg hunts to festive markets and live entertainment, Taranaki has a packed calendar of events for the whole family to enjoy. Enjoy a kaleidoscopic mix of music, arts, and dance from around the globe over 3-days at WOMAD, indulge in the seasonal rich bounty of our region at Autumn Feastival, or enjoy a family day out at the Seaside Night Markets.