Stratford: The gateway Egmont National Park and Mt Taranaki/Egmont..... 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's Glockenspiel

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.

Aotea Canoe Monument

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.

Patea Museum

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.

Waitara

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

Waitara Rivermouth

Rafting the Waitara River

Romeo & Juliet, Stratford's Glockenspiel

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

Stratford

Mokau About one hour’s drive north of New Plymouth, Mokau is located on State Highway 3. This small peaceful village is a favorite summer holiday destination.

Mokau Crafts

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 whitebaiting season, Mokau  River is a favourite spot amongst locals.

Mokau Tourists

Waitara River

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.

Bridgeswinging, Waitara

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 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 toStratford – experience it all…

Inglewood

Inglewood Historically many settlers from European countries immigrated to the Inglewoodarea 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

Fun Ho Museum, Inglewood.

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.

Inglewood

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.

Owae Marae, Waitara

Dam Dropping, Normanby