Explore Taranaki - Like No Other

Taranaki: A Tapestry of Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delight.

We like to say that Taranaki is “New Zealand’s secret paradise” and has been acknowledged as the second best region in the world to visit by Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017, is a destination where mountain and ocean converge in cinematic harmony. From the volcanic majesty of Te Kāhui Tupua / Taranaki Maunga to the dramatic west coast surf, this is a place that beckons both the bold and the serene. Explore alpine hikes, garden sanctuaries, cultural experiences, and culinary joys – all within a day’s reach.

The below are just some of our top picks – to dive deeper into all the region has to offer, visit www.taranaki.co.nz. 


Eat & Drink

Renowned for its thriving café culture, farm-to-table produce, and culinary innovation, Taranaki has a dining scene that blends local flavour with international flair.

From artisan coffee roasters to award-winning restaurants, cosy country pubs to vibrant food trucks, there’s something to satisfy every taste.


Arts & Culture

Taranaki’s cultural life is as rich as its landscapes. The region is home to world-class art at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre, heritage storytelling at Puke Ariki, and vibrant festivals and exhibitions year-round. Live music and international acts take the stage at the Bowl of Brooklands, while local galleries and community events showcase the creativity that thrives here.

Taranaki is one of New Zealand’s most captivating regions, offering a mountain-to-sea lifestyle that blends dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant experiences. Seasonal festivals, scenic drives, make it a great destination any time of the year. Below is a collection of curated experiences that we feel capture the essence of Taranaki’s diverse character. But believe us when we say there is plenty more to uncover in our spectacular region. 

We hope it can help guide you to build your very own, perfect Taranaki itinerary.

  • Taranaki Maunga (Te Kahui Tupua) – Ascend or observe the volcanic icon that dominates the landscape, offering alpine trails, the legendary Pouakai Crossing, and winter snow fun.

  • Back Beach / Paritutu – The coastline around New Plymouth is unforgettable, with sweeping black-sand beaches like Back Beach offering panoramic views across the Tasman. The region’s skyline is marked by Paritutu Rock and the iconic power station chimney, both visible for miles. For those adventurous at heart, the Goat Track climb to Paritutu’s summit rewards with the most spectacular views in town.

  • New Plymouth Coastal Walkway – A 12.7 km oceanside trail weaving through beaches, gardens and the sculptural Te Rewa Rewa Bridge.

  • Pukekura Park – A Garden of National Significance alive with lakes, heritage features, and the luminous Festival of Lights (usually on view between December and Waitangi weekend).

  • Pukeiti Gardens – A rainforest garden of global renown, famed for rhododendrons and tranquil nature walks.

  • Surf Highway 45 – Road-trip the rugged coast, surf legendary breaks, visit Cape Egmont Lighthouse, and wander windswept beaches.
  • Kawaroa Recreation Area – A perfect family stop featuring a brand-new multi-million dollar coastal playground, Todd Energy Aquatic Centres indoor & outdoor swimming pools, and nearby lona Dairy, home of the biggest ice creams in town.

  • Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre – A bold architectural marvel and beacon of contemporary art.

  • Puke Ariki – A museum-library-gallery hybrid that weaves together Taranaki’s stories.

  • Tawhiti Museum – Vivid dioramas and heritage exhibitions that bring regional history to life.

  • Opunake Loop Trail – A scenic coastal route tracing cliffs, beaches, and the tranquil Opunake Lake.

  • Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve – A predator-free haven where kiwi, hihi, and saddleback thrive.

  • Hillsborough Hideaway – Originally the Hillsborough Holden Museum, this all-in-one destination now features the Holden Museum’s private collection of classic Australian cars, 18 holes of Mount Panorama Mini Putt, the 240m downhill Hideaway Luge, and the fully licensed Hideaway Café with homemade meals, treats, drinks, and a sunny deck.