Nearby, Port Taranaki is one of the country’s largest ports on a cargo tonnage basis with more than five million tonnes of trade per year. Our port is the only deepwater port on New Zealand’s west coast.

Surf Highway 45. Taranaki boasts the best all year round surfing coastline in New Zealand. Wet, wild and wicked! Surfers come here from all over the world to take in a Taranaki experience. Accommodation is available near all surfing beaches.

Taranaki is famous for its parks and gardens, especially Pukekura Park, the park for all people. All parks are open year round and many stunning home gardens are open during the famous annual Taranaki Rhododendron Festival.

Love and eat in Taranaki. With such a huge variety to select from, Taranaki can wet any appetite. Try a meal in a swiss chalet on our mighty mountain or a café in the heart of bush country or select a wonderful up-market menu at a leading restaurant. Either way, Taranaki has it all.

Taranaki boasts a large exciting shopping centre, along with specialty shops, interesting arcades, a broad range of supermarkets and many boutiques. Because Taranaki has a deep interest in the arts, it's people abound with creativity. Many of these artists welcome you to watch them work in their beautiful surroundings of Taranaki. Check out the roadside stalls offering fresh homegrown fruits and vegetables and wander through the stunning nurseries afforded by a temperate climate and rich volcanic soils.

Comfort zones from the mountain to the sea. Accommodation in Taranaki ranges from full accommodation on top of Tahora Saddle on the Heritage Trail from Stratford to Taumaranui, to Swiss chalet style on our mighty mountain, and fully serviced camping sites. Our choices of accommodation include: Backpacker Hostels, Homestays, Hotel/Motels, Farmstays, Lodges, Cabins, Caravan Hire, and Bed & Breakfast - whichever you choose, wherever you go, your own personal comfort zone will be catered to by our own Taranaki home grown service

Walks in Taranaki are a photographer’s dream and the province is famous for its many walkways. The Egmont National Park, surrounding Mount Taranaki, is especially well known for tramping and walking. Walks range from 10 minutes to the round-the-mountain four day tramp. Huts are available on the mountain for long walks - take time to absorb the awesome scenery and clean pristine environment.

Because Taranaki has so many lakes, rivers and surf spots, watersports play an extremely important part in the Taranaki lifestyle. Local conditions are ideal for every kind of watersport including boating, kayaking, swimming, fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, surfing, windsurfing, surf lifesaving, dam dropping and whitewater rafting. If you’re into watersports action, Taranaki is the place for you.

Try Heli-fishing in Taranaki for the unusual, a test of endurance for the skilled and courageous. For the true fisherman ... very Taranaki

Taranaki is a leading province for horse stud development in New Zealand. As a province we feature regular gallop and trot meetings at either New Plymouth, Stratford, Hawera or Waverley raceways. Locals enjoy a day at the races and we welcome visitors to join in the fun atmosphere

Golfers are spoilt for choice by the 20 golf courses in Taranaki, that’s more golf courses per person than anywhere else in New Zealand. Lawn bowls also holds a high profile among local sports. But the most popular sport of all is rugby. Rugby Park is a venue that regularly hosts many local and national games.

Walks in Taranaki are a photographer’s dream and the province is famous for its many walkways. The Egmont National Park, surrounding Mount Taranaki, is especially well known for tramping and walking. Walks range from 10 minutes to the round-the-mountain four day tramp. Huts are available on the mountain for long walks - take time to absorb the awesome scenery and clean pristine environment.

.A selection of wildlife parks are also available for your enjoyment. A great family day out visiting Brooklands Zoo, Pouakai Wildlife Park or Stony Oaks Wildlife Park. These photographs are compliments of Stony Oaks Wildlife Park, Inglewood.

New Plymouth is the holiday destination with something for everyone. Sun, sea, sand and snow, a spectacular cone mountain, magnificent parks and gardens, walking tracks, great shopping and vibrant nightlife. We have a superb lifestyle and every possible service right on our doorstep. The population of New Plymouth is approximately 70,000. The indigenous Maori were first attracted to Taranaki because of its mild climate and the abundance of seafood along the coastline. They inhabited the region from around 800 AD and were joined by Europeans about 150 years ago when New Plymouth became one of the first settlements in New Zealand. Richmond Cottage was built in the 1800’s for Christopher Richmond and his wife. It still stands today and many of the furnishings and artefacts on display in the cottage are associated with Richmond-Atkinson families and other early New Plymouth colonial settlers.

New Plymouth is the major commercial centre for Taranaki, situated on the west coast with Mount Taranaki dominating the landscape to the east. New Plymouth is a great place to visit, hold a meeting, convention or to live in. Many of New Zealand’s leading companies were formed here and continue to export around the world. We are internationally renowned here for the strength of our oil and gas sector, our manufacturing expertise and of course our dairy industry. The energy sector is particularly important and provides the base for New Zealand’s oil, gas and petrochemical industries which in turn provides a solid commercial and employment base for the region. Overseas investment is encouraged in Taranaki and has created a flourishing energy industry and associated businesses.

New Plymouth District’s stunning natural attractions, its history, heritage and strong community spirit mean there is something special to be found for every visitor.

A visit to Hawera is not complete without climbing the Water Tower, a local landmark, for wonderful views of the surrounding area

Hawera Situated on the ring plain around Mount Taranaki, the fertile volcanic soils make Hawera a rich farming area. The meaning of the name Hawera is "the burned place". The township locality between mountain and sea makes it a perfect base for seeing the local sights and attractions. The beaches are known for their excellent surfing conditions and the rivers radiating off the mountain provide attractive picnic sites and fishing spots. The local aquatic centre offers a 50 metre pool, split level toddlers pool and 25 metre pool for year round swimming.

Turuturumokai is the most impressive and well kept historical site in South Taranaki. Turuturumokai is an old Maori pa site and was occupied during the Taranaki Land Wars of the 1860’s. For a further introduction to history of the area don’t miss the Tawhiti Museum. Widely acclaimed as the best private museum in the country, Tawhiti Museum recreates many aspects of early life in South Taranaki from the Taranaki Land Wars to the struggles and set backs of an infant dairy industry. Life sized figures cast from real people are used extensively to provide a very real image offering a social perspective as well as a technological history.

The town boasts two beautiful parks, walkways and reserves to enjoy, plus the picturesque Te Ngutu golf course. A number of private gardens are open to the public during the popular Taranaki Rhododendron Festival which usually runs the first week in November each year.

On the corner of Whareroa Road and State Highway 3 visit Dairyland for an insight into the processes involved in producing our dairy products. Dairyland encompasses interactive audiovisual displays, a souvenir shop and revolving restaurant all under one roof

Manaia A peaceful rural town with a population of around 1069, Manaia is situated on the coast at the foot of Mount Taranaki’s southern slopes. The town is a 10 minute drive northwest of Hawera and a one hour drive south of New Plymouth on Surf Highway 45. The octagonal town centre surrounds the Band Rotunda and from here you can choose roads leading to the mountain, the coast, Opunake or Hawera. Manaia is also fortunate enough to boast the largest export bakehouse in New Zealand. Yarrows is renowned for the export of frozen breads and pastries.

Kaponga Nestled at the base of Mount Taranaki, Kaponga is a pleasant township through which most visitors to Dawson Falls pass. The town was first settled in 1882 and now has a population of approximately 370. The name Kaponga means "tree ferns used for palisades". Kaponga has a strong Swiss community and is known as the Swiss centre of New Zealand. In fact, some of the first settlers in the area were Swiss and in 1952 a Swiss Club was formed in the town. The club is the focal point for Swiss families in the area and Taranaki as a whole. Four kilometres north of Kaponga is Hollard Gardens, gifted to the Queen Elizabeth National Trust in 1982, which is open to visitors all year round. The gardens are most colourful from September to late November when many plants, especially the rhododendrons are in flower.

Eltham is a vital town known for its production of fine cheeses and famous people. Historically it has been the most highly industrialised town (per capital) in New Zealand. This trend is still evident with the headquarters of Eltham Meats, Rennet, Ferndale, Galaxy Cheeses and Mainland Packing all being based here. Eltham’s industrial tradition is reflected in a variety of New Zealand "firsts". Bridge Street was the first street to be tar sealed. The first concrete floored cowshed was in Eltham and the Eltham Power Board was the first to use concrete power poles. The first dairy produce to be exported was butter sent in casks from Eltham to England in 1884. The casks were sent by Chew Chong - a Chinese peddler whose career in Eltham included trading his hand made wooden toys for butter and milk and later buying fungus which became known as ‘Taranaki Wool’. In later years the dairying tradition continued with the invention of the first turnstile cowshed by Mr M. L. Hicks.

North of Kaponga is the southern entrance to Egmont National Park. The road end at Dawson Falls has an excellent visitor centre which offers information on the history of the mountain, its flora and fauna, significant points of interest and where they can be found. Also situated at the road end is the Dawson Falls Tourist Lodge which was established in 1896. This lodge offers high quality accommodation and has a fully licensed restaurant. Kaponga is also home to the Hazelwood Horse Ornament Museum. This private collection of horse ornaments belongs to the Hazelwood family and includes a number of family heirlooms. Although there are no accommodation facilities available in Kaponga, visitors to the area are well served by both Konini Lodge and Dawson Falls Tourist Lodge on Mount Taranaki.

Places of interest in Eltham include several parks and playing areas, two swimming pools and two beautiful lakes. Lake Rotokare (meaning "the rippling lake") is fed entirely by natural springs and the only outlet is at the western end. Together with 212 hectares of surrounding native bush the lake forms a scenic reserve containing diverse types of vegetation and wildlife. A walkway around the lake takes just over an hour and there are toilets and a picnic area at the road end. Further inland along Rawhitiroa Road is Lake Rotorangi. Formed behind an earth dam built for hydro-electric power purposes, Rotorangi is currently the longest man-made lake in New Zealand at 46 kilometres in length. The Eltham shopping centre caters for most requirements with one or two businesses being well known throughout Taranaki for the quality of service and stock that they offer.
 
 

Opunake With a population of around 1600 Opunake township hosts one of the most magnificent crescent shaped beaches in Taranaki. During summer the population swells with tourists and holiday makers. The main camping ground is right on the beach next to the patrolled swimming area.

Stratford The gateway to both the Egmont and Whanganui National Parks, Stratford is strategically positioned in the centre of Taranaki. With a temperate climate, and altitude of 310 metres, 2050 annual sunshine hours and an atmosphere free of humidity, Stratford has an appealing freshness that complements the surrounding lush green countryside.

Stratford is also home to Taranaki’s Pioneer Village. A unique Central Taranaki attraction which depicts the pioneering days of the early 1900’s, creating nostalgic memories for the older generation and first-hand education for younger members of the family and school groups.

Stratford streets are named from Shakespearean themes and the clock tower reflects this with New Zealand’s only Glockenspiel.

Stratford has a diverse range of activities and attractions for all ages. Climbing to the summit of our alpine peak, a drive in the country, a round of golf, horse trekking adventures or fine food and drink. The native bush is expansive and the waters are crystal clear. Breathtaking scenery, arts, culture and history, an indoor heated swimming complex, convention centre facilities, sporting facilities and spectacular bush walks. Come to Stratford ? experience it all… VERY TARANAKI …

Patea The settlement of Patea occurred after the Taranaki Land Wars. Located south of Hawera, Patea began its settlement with navigators Turi, and Rongo-Rongo, both indigenous Maori, in the 14th century.

InglewoodHistorically many settlers from European countries immigrated to the Inglewood area to log timber. Dairy farms now surround this area. In the centre of Inglewood a magnificent rhododendron (Elegans) is reputed to be one of the largest in New Zealand

Explore the natural coastal caves and islands, kayak or cruise the Mokau River, swim, surf, collect shells, catch fish, gather mussels, and feel the sea breeze, while enjoying secluded miles of black sand beaches. In white baiting season, Mokau River is a favourite spot amongst locals.

The Aotea Canoe was constructed as a memorial to Turi and is situated on Patea’s main street opposite the South Taranaki Museum. Patea has a small port and beach area.

Fifteen minutes drive from New Plymouth, Inglewood hosts the Fun Ho National Toy Museum, and the oldest standing original railway station - a place of special interest to all visitors

Waitara is a short drive, 16 kilometres north of New Plymouth and is the largest town in North Taranaki with a population of over 6500. Rich in history, Waitara was one of the first areas to be settled by Maori.

Manukorihi Pa is set above the town and displays a distinguished carved Maori meeting house, Te Ikaroa-a-Maui, completed in 1936. The meeting house is a memorial to Maori leader Sir Maui Pomare

The Waitara River, which flows through the centre of the town is popular for fishing and boating. Waitara is set in a landscape now dominated by energy projects. In 1985 the gas-to-gasoline plant, Motunui began producing. A methanol producing plant is in the Waitara valley and the McKee oilfield is also close by.

Waitara is a community conscious township with a Public Relations Office offering information to visitors and community support to their local residents.

Mount Taranaki is a huge conical shaped volcano, which dominates the landscape. The volcano rises to 2518 metres out of the surrounding plain and is a 10 minute drive from the coastline. Mount Taranaki is surrounded by lush temperate rainforest and the area is protected with National Park status

Mighty Mount Taranaki, isolated and surrounded by lush green countryside, blue sea and skies, protects the fertile region of Taranaki.

Mount Taranaki dominates our weather and everyday life with its ever changing moods. The mountain provides excellent climbing, skiing, tramping and photography. The mountain is the source of over 50 rivers and streams and is a botanically unique area. It contains a wide variety of vegetation from sub-tropical semi coastal forest in the Kaitake ranges through to sub alpine herb fields 1800 metres on the main cone.

Mount Taranaki also has a ski field. One of the best walks in the park is a 4 hour walk to Fanthams Peak. There is a hut at the top where you can stay overnight called Symes Hut. There are also three roads that take you part of the way up on different sides of the mountain and many walking tracks that take you the rest of the way to the summit

Many bird species can also be found in the forests surrounding the mountain. Volcanic activity began in Taranaki some 1.7 million years ago. Mount Taranaki, 2518 metres, and Fanthams peak, 1692 metres, comprise the volcano, the youngest of four Taranaki volcanic centres.

Local tour operators will show you the way to have a stunning holiday, take in a day tramping to the summit of Mount Taranaki, try abseiling, rock climbing or simply visit for the stunning photography. Egmont National Park has Department of Conservation centres strategically placed for you to gain information and Stratford Information Centre is the gateway to our mighty mountain.

Walk upon our mighty mountain, or ride down the natural water slide that nature has provided, take in the natural lake on the mountain. Whatever you decide to do we promise that Mount Taranaki will make you want to stay.

Mighty, Majestic, Magical, totally awesome, the heart of Taranaki, the heart of the people, we encourage you to taste our wonderful lifestyle, Ski, tramp, climb in the morning and surf in the evening VERY TARANAKI.

Visitors experience the enjoyment of walking or tramping through the unspoiled natural environment of Mount Taranaki, taking in the native bush with its fascinating scenery. Most people visit the mountain for a short time and then return home missing the wonderful bush tracks that are available in various parts of the Egmont National Park. Equipment required includes: strong footwear, a parka or waterproof coat, a small pack of food, and warm spare clothing. All routes are well defined, but just in case anything should go wrong, please advise people where you are going and when you expect to return.

There are over 300 kilometres of walking tracks in the Egmont National Park, making the forest, high alpine slopes and surrounding ranges among the most accessible areas in any of New Zealand's National Parks. Three well-sealed main roads lead up onto the mountain to the Visitor's Centre, Dawson Falls; to the Mountain House clearing, the Plateau and ski slopes at East Egmont and to the Visitor's Centre at North Egmont. These areas are focal points for a variety of short walks, day trips and the summit routes. Mount Taranaki also has a well developed Round-the-Mountain track with well spaced huts and alternative high level summer routes. One of the main advantages of these tracks for trampers is that it offers a number of points where you can walk off the mountain in bad weather by following one of the many access tracks down to a road. Further tramping tracks cross the adjoining Pouakai and Kaitake Ranges.

HORSE TREKKING:Take in the rugged beauty of Taranaki on horseback. Our terrain provides for the horse trekking enthusiast. Horse treks through seemingly uncharted ranges provide spectacular scenic trails along with a stunning coastline. Make your holiday memorable... in the rugged beauty of Taranaki.

There is a number of tourist operators available to guide you to whatever horse trekking adventure you wish... Taranaki is a dream place for any of those outdoor orientated people. Horse trekking is a popular pastime for Taranaki, now we bring it all to you.

Let our tour operators take you on a 2 day trek from Okoki Valley to Huroa, staying overnight at Off The Beaten Track Adventures, on the Waitara River. Experience a backcountry ride with awesome scenery and views. Meals, tent accommodation and horses supplied - or ride your own horse. Optional two hour kayak trips can be arranged.

Windyglen Horse Trekking: Most areas are full of history dating back to early Maori occupation and the first white settlers. Significant geological and natural history features, especially our native plant and bird life, are readily seen and will be pointed out by your guide.

For the trekking enthusiast, most horses are not difficult to manage. Whether you are a rider or not a horse suited to your ability can be found. The horses range in size and temperament from those suitable for young children to those that demand a certain amount of skill to be able to ride enjoyably. If you ride regularly with us there is an opportunity to stay with your favourite, or progress to other horses as you improve your skills.

TE AWE TE TAKE: This ride starts by crossing a unique suspension bridge and across flat land before riding up the hill country at the edge of the Taranaki ring plain. From here, tremendous views of our mighty Mountain, much of North Taranaki coastline, and, on a fine day, the central North Island mountains can be seen. Many other spectacular views present themselves in the ever changing vistas on this ride before descending to the river where lunch is enjoyed beside a good swimming hole. Approximately 4-5hrs riding.

MANGAHEWA: The Mangahewa ride is a two day/one night ride further out into the steeper backcountry of Taranaki into the area where much of TaranakiÕs oil comes from. Crossing from valley to valley and riding some of the high ridges presents close up as well as panoramic views of our rugged green Taranaki hill country 4-5hrs riding each day. This ride can be extended to 3 or 4 days by riding various loops while out back.

HUNTING: For the small game hunting enthusiast, Taranaki inland forest and bush ranges allow an excellent hunting environments. Rabbit, deer, pig, goat, duck and possum are plentiful for the keen hunter.There are hunting guides in Taranaki who will assist you with your requirements and all supplies are available through retail supply outlets. Access to hunting environments can be by foot, four wheel drive or horse back, or indeed, by helicopter, kayak or canoe.