A wanderer’s delight, Taranaki is a region like no other. The snow capped symmetrical cone of Mt Taranaki is the prominent feature of the landscape, with green fertile farm land underneath meeting the Tasman sea.
The region is one of those perfect off the beaten track locations, and highly recommended as a detour rather than travelling straight down the country on SH1.
Taranaki is an adventurers delight – there are not many places in the world you can go snowboarding in the morning, and then a short drive in your campervan and be surfing or fishing in the afternoon. Taranaki offers some pumping surf breaks, a great ski field, and at times some of New Zealand’s best game fishing.
For those who prefer things at a bit of a slower pace, there are plenty of off the beaten track places to wander to with your camper and soak in the natural scenery.
The urban city of New Plymouth is a vibrant centre, with an abundance of interesting walks. A must do is the Coastal Walkway, a ten kilometre pathway stretching the sea edge promenande spanning almost the entire city. New Plymouth is well known for its arts trails and gardens, and home to many festivals and events.
Hidden Gems
We rate the captivating and breathtaking hidden gem of Tongaporutu as the Must Do while you are in Taranaki. It is the sort of spot that golden photo moments of your NZ road trip come from - the sphere's and boulders on the north beach and 3 sisters to the South provide some of NZ's best photo moments.
Walks
Walk the famed Whitecliffs walkway loop, check out the Egmont National Park and its many walks and closer to the city check out Paritutu Rock the monolithic volcanic spire that rises 153 metres directly above New Plymouth’s western shoreline.
Freedom Camping
There are plenty of great spots for freedom camping along the Taranaki Surf Coast including the Cape Egmont Lighthouse area with a 100% view of the Tasman sea and Waverly Beach, a great off the beaten track little village that very few people know about.
