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The Complete Travel Guide to New Plymouth [2024]

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Travel along the rugged west coast of New Zealand’s North Island and you’ll come across a city that takes many by surprise – not only for its art scene and breathtakingly beautiful gardens but for all of this being nestled between black sandy shores and the iconic volcanic cone of Mt Taranaki . It takes just 30 minutes to make your way from the surf beaches of the city to the slopes of Mt Taranaki where the untamed forest is so fairytale-like that it’s often referred to as the “goblin forest”. Although surrounded by the nature that New Zealand is famous for, New Plymouth is still a small but vibrant cosmopolitan city with fabulous hotels, creative eateries and art spaces.

Plan your trip to Taranaki according to your unique travel style with this complete travel guide to New Plymouth.

Common Questions About New Plymouth

Let’s cut to the chase; what are the most common questions travellers have about visiting New Plymouth?

Is New Plymouth Worth Visiting?

Yes – if you have the time to do the detour off the main tourist trail, New Plymouth and Taranaki are well worth the excursion thanks to its vibrant mix of city culture and the Egmont National Park on its doorstep.

What is New Plymouth Most Known For?

New Plymouth is known for its iconic natural surroundings of the volcanic cone of Mt Taranaki and the Tasman Sea. Always a hot topic for debate, New Plymouth is also known for its offshore rigs extracting natural gas and oil.

Where is New Plymouth Located?

On the west coast of the North Island in the Taranaki region of New Zealand.

What is the Weather Usually Like in New Plymouth?

The daily average temperature is 13.6°C/56.6°F , while the yearly average rainfall is 1,609mm/63.3 ″. Find out more in What is the Weather Like in New Zealand?

How Do You Get to New Plymouth?

New Plymouth is well connected to the rest of New Zealand by road, located just off State Highway 3 . The closest international airport is Auckland Airport (4h20mins drive) with plenty of car rental options available , as well as domestic flights to New Plymouth Airport . New Plymouth is also on the main national bus route, which you can find more information about in Bus Networks in New Zealand .

How Many Days Do You Need in New Plymouth?

You need at least 2-3 days (or a long weekend) to make the most of New Plymouth but you can easily spend 5-7 days with the amount to do here.

What to Do in New Plymouth

From the slopes of Mt Taranaki to the black-sand shores, New Plymouth offers an array of exciting experiences in exciting landscapes. It’s easy to get your outdoors fix between hiking in the Egmont National Park or surfing at Fitzroy Beach . That’s not to say that you don’t have captivating city experiences, with striking art galleries, museums and gardens to admire.

The Top Experiences in New Plymouth

What are the must-dos? Here are some of the New Plymouth highlights:

• Get amazing views from Paritutu Rock
• Walk or cycle the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
• Surf, swim or feel your toes in the sand at Fitzroy Beach or Back Beach
• Explore the forest and volcanic slopes of Mt Taranaki from the North Egmont Visitor Centre
• Take a stroll around Pukekura Park
• Race on the luge tracks, play mini golf and admire cars at the Hillsborough Car Museum
• Enjoy a day trip down Surf Highway 45 or one of the other Best Day Trips from New Plymouth …

… And the list continues over in our  15 Best Things to Do in New Plymouth .

Rainy Day Activities

Admittedly, New Plymouth is often in the firing line for wet weather, so be sure to have a rainy day backup with these options:

• Visit the Puke Ariki Museum
• See the latest exhibitions at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre
• Do a brewery tour of Mike’s Brewery & Bistro or Shining Peak Brewery .

Need more inspiration? Check out the  11 Things to Do in New Plymouth on a Rainy Day .

Where to Stay in New Plymouth

Other than the accommodations we recommend on the righthand side of this complete travel guide to New Plymouth (or at the bottom, if you’re on mobile), we have compiled entire lists of places to stay based on price, what’s best for families or a couples’ getaway, as well as premium stays. What’s more, each list is compiled by real writers; not some algorithm.

• 10 Best Hotels
• 10 Best Motels
• 5 Best Backpacker Hostels
• 10 Best Budget Accommodations
• 10 Best Family Accommodations
• 10 Best Luxury Accommodations
• 5 Best Romantic Accommodations
• New Plymouth: A Guide to Cheap Long-Term Accommodation

New Plymouth for Budget Travellers

Travellers on a budget will certainly be rewarded for getting off the beaten track to visit New Plymouth. In a city not so focussed on obtaining the tourist dollar, most of the attractions are either free or at least very affordable. Highlights include award-winning art galleries, stunning black sand beaches, picturesque public gardens and adventures in the Egmont National Park where the walking trails are simply the way to enjoy the sights. You’ll find the perfect balance of cosmopolitan lifestyle and nature in and around New Plymouth. Find out more in The Guide to New Plymouth on a Budget .

Things to Do in New Plymouth on a Budget

• Walk the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
• Visit the Puke Ariki museum
• Spend a day exploring Pukekura Park
• Climb Paritutu Rock to enjoy the beach and mountain views
• Do some surfing at New Plymouth’s beaches.

For more ideas, just head to 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in New Plymouth .

Budget Accommodation in New Plymouth

On top of the affordable experience, New Plymouth has some fantastic budget accommodations. Stay in homely hostels, holiday parks by the beach or one of the many motels for a true home-away-from-home experience. Check out our top picks in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in New Plymouth .

New Plymouth for Luxury Travellers

Just the sheer laidback and authentic vibe of the small city of New Plymouth is a luxury, while the views of Mt Taranaki and the Tasman Sea enhance the experience. There are premium ways to explore New Plymouth’s diverse landscapes, from guided hiking tours to helicopter flights. It’s also easy to dive into the local culture with unique art galleries like the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery , while the surrounding golf courses offer stunning views to go along with this favourite Kiwi pastime. Start planning a premium getaway with The Luxury Guide to New Plymouth .

Luxury Activities in New Plymouth

• Take a guided hike of the magnificent Egmont National Park with Top Guides
• Fly over Mt Taranaki or to a remote waterfall with Precision Helicopters
• Do a curator’s tour of the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre
• Indulge in high tea at Tupare Historic Homestead and Gardens
• Tee off at one of the many golf courses around New Plymouth.

For elaboration on each experience and more, browse the 7 Luxury Activities in New Plymouth .

Luxury Accommodation in New Plymouth

Despite being a small city, New Plymouth has a spectacular array of hotels, from the luxury boutique Nice Hotel to premium international chains like Novotel New Plymouth Hobson . You’ll also find the odd boutique B&B experience, such as at Tivoli Homestay , as well as a luxury stay on a vineyard. Compare your options in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in New Plymouth .

New Plymouth for Families

One of the most affordable destinations in New Zealand’s for families, mum and dad don’t need to worry about going over budget. Most of the main attractions in New Plymouth are free, with the highlights being the sights, rather than the things to do. See the stunning “goblin forest” of the Egmont National Park , see the beautiful beaches along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway , and see the amazing street art around the city. Families looking for something a bit more, however, will find kayaking tours, museums and farm park visits too. Plan your next family getaway with The Guide to New Plymouth for Families .

Family-Friendly Activities in New Plymouth

• Do the child-friendly walks of the Egmont National Park
• Go on a kayaking trip on the Waitara River
• Build sandcastles at Fitzroy or Back Beach
• Play mini golf and race on the luge at the Hillsborough Car Museum
• Feed the animals at Stoney Oaks Wildlife Park .

For more information on each experience, check out the 10 Things to Do in New Plymouth with Kids .

Family Accommodation in New Plymouth

From affordable and fun-filled holiday parks to lavish hotels, and all the motels and family rooms in hostels in between, New Plymouth offers a great range of accommodations for families. Check out the 10 Best Family Accommodation in New Plymouth for our top recommendations.

New Plymouth for Couples

Whatever scene screams romance to you, New Plymouth is sure to have it. Picturesque rhododendron gardens: check! Sweeping beaches: check! Untamed natural wilderness: check! Even a cone-shaped volcano is in the mix! Enjoy the scenery with intimate walks on uncrowded trails or up the excitement with kayaking trips or horse trekking. When the day starts to draw to a close, treat your loved one to a romantic night out at New Plymouth’s tapas bars and fine dining restaurants, then retreat to one of the lavish hotels or boutique accommodations. Plan a honeymoon or a romantic getaway with The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to New Plymouth .

Romantic Things to Do in New Plymouth

• Visit New Plymouth’s romantic gardens
• Indulge in a mineral hot pool at the Taranaki Thermal Spa
• Head out horse riding with Horse Trek’n Taranaki
• Team up in a double kayak to paddle to the Sugar Loaf Islands
• Take a picnic to Lake Mangamahoe .

For more information on each activity and others, see the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in New Plymouth for Couples .

Romantic Accommodation in New Plymouth

While luxurious hotel rooms are the most abundant option for couples who may be celebrating a special occasion, there is the odd boutique B&B or cottage-style accommodation to set the right tone for a romantic getaway. Check out our top picks in the 5 Best Romantic Accommodations in New Plymouth .

New Plymouth for Foodies

Home to one of the original craft breweries of New Zealand, as well as a winery on the coast making indulgent wines despite the extreme conditions, New Plymouth is certainly a unique and interesting destination for foodies. While there are fantastic farmers’ market and high tea experiences to be had, the restaurants in New Plymouth alone will make foodies want to stay awhile. Bistro dining on contemporary cuisine to creative tapas restaurants to fin-filled American-style diners, New Plymouth offers real variety and memorable dining experiences. Find out more in The Food Guide to New Plymouth: Places to Eat & Food Tours .

Food Tours and Experiences in New Plymouth

• Taste the fudge of Wisteria Gourmet Fudge in Pukekura Park
• Do a brewery tour of the Shining Peak Brewery
• Have an artisanry experience at the Farmers Market Taranaki
• Do a wine tasting at the Okurukuru Winery
• Enjoy high tea in the historic Tupera house and gardens.

For more information on these activities, check out the 7 Best Foodie Experiences in New Plymouth .

Where to Eat in New Plymouth

• Koi Lounge ( 85 Devon St West Central )
• Social Kitchen (40 Powderham Street)
• Deluxe Diner (36 Leach Street)
• Elixir Cafe (117 Devon Street East)
• Little Fed ( 53 Tukapa Street )

Foodie Accommodation in New Plymouth

Whether you want to stay in a hotel with a fabulous restaurant or have your own kitchen facilities to experiment with local produce, there’s accommodation to suit in New Plymouth. Just take a look at the 10 Best Accommodations in New Plymouth for Foodies for ideas.

New Plymouth Accommodation

• The Devon Hotel A Heritage Hotel
• Ducks & Drakes
• King and Queen Hotel Suites
• Quest New Plymouth Serviced Apartments
• Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park
• Carrington Motel
• Auto Lodge Motor Inn
• One Burgess Hill
• Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park
• Ariki Backpackers
• Flamingo Motel
• New Plymouth TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Amber Court Motel
• Beach Street Motel Apartments
• 299 On Devon West
• Lockwood Manor Motel
• Brougham Heights Motel
• BKs Egmont Motor Lodge
• 16 Northgate Motor Lodge
• The Dawson Motel
• Egmont Eco Leisure Park
• Ahu Ahu Beach Villas
• The Metrotel
• Pukekura Motor Lodge
• Coronation Court Motel
• Sunflower Lodge
• Braemar Motor Inn
• Country Retreat Glamping
• Saddle and Sulky Motor Lodge
• 16 Havelock
• Tivoli Homestay
• The Chalets at Okurukuru
• The State Hotel
• Copthorne Hotel Grand Central New Plymouth
• Millennium Hotel New Plymouth
• Plymouth International
• Hosking House
• Novotel New Plymouth Hobson

Find out more about our top picks in the  10 Best Hotels in New Plymouth and  10 Best Motels in New Plymouth .

More About New Plymouth

That’s it for our complete travel guide to New Plymouth but by no means the end of our New Plymouth travel tips! Check out the following guides for more advice on what to do in the region:

• 10 Best Galleries & Museums in New Plymouth
• 8 Wonderful Walks in New Plymouth
• 10 Best Things to Do in Stratford

5 Best Things to Do in Opunake

• 8 Best Things to Do in Eltham

6 Best Things in Do in Patea

• 5 Best Things to Do in Manaia
• 6 Towns You Can’t Miss in South Taranaki

Finally, plan more of your North Island trip using the  North Island in Two Weeks: Road Trip Itinerary or  North Island in One Week: Road Trip Itinerary . You’ll also find more advice for planning an epic NZ trip in  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Visit Taranaki (Regional tourism website)
• Taranaki Regional Council (Local council website)
• New Plymouth District Council (Local council website)
• South Taranaki District Council (Local council website)
• Stratford District Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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• New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
• Taranaki Maunga/Egmont National Park
• Galleries and museums

4.5 hours from Wellington

55 min from Wellington

50 mins from Auckland

New Plymouth's parks and gardens are a beauty to behold all year round. Alternatively, pull on your hiking boots and explore Taranaki Maunga.

New Plymouth is a vibrant and contemporary city, known for its sunny climate, art galleries, picturesque parks, decadent dining, and family-friendly fun. 

The conical shape of Taranaki Maunga (mountain) provides a dramatic backdrop to the city, a constant reminder that the hiking trails of Egmont National Park/Te Papakura o Taranaki are just a short drive away.

Down at the New Plymouth waterfront you’ll find  Puke Ariki , a n innovative museum , library , heritage centre , and information site that contains a wealth of fascinating local history and artifacts. The extraordinary reflective stainless steel Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre , in the cultural heart of New Plymouth’s West End Precinct, is New Zealand's first and only museum of contemporary art. It is also the nation's first institution dedicated to a single artist, the pioneering filmmaker and kinetic sculptor, Len Lye. 

At any time of the year, Pukekura Park is a place to relax and enjoy nature; it has a free children’s zoo and a multitude of bush walks.  It is also the location for the annual TSB Festival of Lights – a free six-week light display extravaganza during summer.  

There’s no shortage of family-fun in New Plymouth. Check out the Hillsborough Holden Museum , just a short drive away from the main CBD. Not only can you visit the car museum, but there is also an outdo or luge, mini putt course, and café. Within the CBD is the Bowlarama complex, that includes glow-in-the dark mini putt, and laser tag.

You may also like to stroll along the  New Plymouth Coastal Walkway , a 1 2.7 km promenade with stunning views , and several art installations (Wind Wand, Mother s and Daughters, Light on the Land, Big Wave Territory) along the way . Expect good shopping and an impressive selection of b ars and restaurants throughout New Plymouth.

Explore New Plymouth

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Top Things to Do in New Plymouth

Things to do in new plymouth.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Pukekura Park

2. New Plymouth Coastal Walkway

4. Puke Ariki

6. Brooklands Zoo

7. Back Beach

8. Te Rewa Rewa Bridge

9. Te Henui Cemetery

10. Sugar Loaf Islands and Paritutu Rock

11. Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre

12. Lake Mangamahoe

13. Port Taranaki Walkway

14. Te Henui Walkway

15. Taranaki Cathedral, Church of St Mary

16. Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum

17. West End Precinct

18. Ngamotu New Plymouth isite Visitor Information Centre

19. Kawaroa Park

20. Huatoki Walkway

21. Todd Energy Aquatic Centre

22. Whitecliffs Walkway

23. Hillsborough Car Museum

24. Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve Walk

25. The Gables (Colonial Hospital)

26. Pouakai Zoo

27. Burgess Park (Meeting of The Waters)

28. Wind Wand

29. Known Unknown Winery

30. Barrett Domain Walkway

What travellers are saying

• New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
• Pukekura Park
• Brooklands Zoo
• Sugar Loaf Islands and Paritutu Rock

21 BEST Things to Do in New Plymouth in 2024

By Author Delilah

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

A sunny and vibrant town located on New Zealand’s picturesque west coast, New Plymouth is one of New Zealand’s best beachside destinations!

New Plymouth is known for its contemporary art, hipster cafes and eateries and breathtaking scenery.  

Whether you’re enticed by hiking for views of Mount Taranaki, dining at delicious restaurants or soaking up the art-scene, there are plenty of great things to do in New Plymouth and Taranaki.

Read on for our top picks! 

Table of Contents

Things to Do in New Plymouth

New Plymouth is a little out of the way, with the drive from Auckland taking 4 ½ hours, or Rotorua 4 hours, making it a destination that often gets skipped on New Zealand itineraries.

We reckon this is a big mistake!  New Plymouth is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New Zealand and is really packed full with awesome New Plymouth activities.  We’d recommend all travellers make the drive!

1. Hike to the Pouakai Tarns

There was really no question what activity would make it to the top of this list.  This is the location of the quintessential view of Mount Taranaki with the postcard perfect ‘lake’ in the foreground.

Although technically a tarn (which is more like a swamp-y, alpine pond) and not a lake, we don’t believe this detracts from the unbelievably beautiful view you get at the top of the hike.

The Pouakai Tarns hike itself is quite demanding, it takes about 4 – 5 hours and covers 12.2km in distance.  The real challenge is the 782m of elevation gain which will leave your legs burning at the top.

If you’re of average fitness (I’d say we are) then you’ll get up with a bit of effort.

Near the top there is a small hut and campsite which are great spots to spend a night if you’re wanting to watch sunrise / sunset from the tarns (which we’d highly recommend).  Just remember to book with DOC!

Once you make it to the tarns you will get spectacular views out over Mount Taranaki.  Or you might just see clouds.  There are a few tricks to getting it right here:

• Aim to arrive at the Pouakai Tarns for sunrise.  The lighting is best at this time and usually the wind will be calmer resulting in better reflections on the water.
• Consider staying in the hut so you can visit the tarn at sunrise and sunset.  Two opportunities double your chances of good conditions.
• Time your hike when the wind is forecasted to be low and the low cloud coverage isn’t too high.
• Wait.  This is the most important tip we can possibly convey.  Clouds move, if you just wait they will often part even when it looks impossible.  You hiked up a mountain to get here so be patient.

When we visited it was extremely white-out cloudy and we saw a lot of people hike up, see the views then leave frustrated.  5-minutes later the clouds would separate and it would look like the photo below.  

2. Peruse the Govett Brewster Art Gallery & Len Lye Centre

The Govett Brewster Art Gallery is an impressive work of art in itself.  This magnificent building, designed by Patterson Associates, has a wavy facade built out of steel polished to reflect like a mirror.  It is clearly inspired by the works of the acclaimed New Zealand artist, Len Lye.

We’d recommend anyone at least stop to view the building (it’s hard to miss) and take a few photographs.  If you have time, head inside to peruse the art galleries.  Admission is $15 for tourists.

There are usually two exhibitions on.  One which is seasonal and changes from time to time but is usually poignant and meaningful, the other is a constant exhibit of the works of Len Lye.  

Len Lye was a famous filmmaker, but we particularly loved his kinetic sculptures, many of which you can find scattered around New Plymouth.

3. Stay in a Church With Panoramic Views

Well, we don’t think this is a real church but it does look like one!  And the views really are panoramic.  Plus, if you find yourself in the mood to get married you can do it without having to leave your accommodation!

Little Church Bay is a beautiful, beachfront holiday home located on a cliff overlooking Fitzroy Beach.  Despite these views you could easily forget that the accommodation is also conveniently placed within walking distance of all the bars and restaurants in town.

If you’re looking for somewhere special to stay with epic views and a quirky vibe, then Little Church Bay is it.  

4. Climb Paritutu Rock and See the Sugarloafs

Paritutu Rock is the perfect way to get bearings in New Plymouth.  By hiking to the top of this 156m high rock you’ll achieve commanding views out over New Plymouth town, the harbour and the iconic Sugarloaf Islands.

These adorably named natural landmarks are a collection of five islands that are essentially stumps that remain from an ancient volcano.  Apparently (we haven’t been down there) below the surface are dramatic cliffs, canyons and reefs.

Now to reach those views and get those photos you’re going to have to work hard.  Although the climb only takes about 15 minutes, it is a scramble that is closer to rock climbing than hiking.  We saw one person give up half-way, held back by her fear of heights.

5. Eat at the New Plymouth Restaurants

New Plymouth’s restaurant scene is epic!  We’re huge foodies so we always love it when we can visit a town or city that has great restaurants whilst still being interesting.

There are heaps of great places to try and it’s best you get out there and pick your faves, but here are some of ours!

For brunch, Monica’s Eatery and The Public Catering Company are the best spots.

Ms White have the best pizzas, like seriously they’re that good, as well as craft beers on tap.  For more craft beers, the nearby Three Sisters Brewery have succulent beers available but the food is pretty basic.

Cafe Turquoise was an interesting winner for us and is probably our favourite restaurant in town, despite being super cheap.  

Last but not least, definitely pay a visit to Liardet St Food Court which is a trendy area with a bunch of great eateries.

6. Walk Across Te Rewa Rewa Bridge at Sunset

In order to extend the Coastal Walkway to the north, New Plymouth District Council commissioned the design and construction of a pedestrian bridge over the Waiwhakaiho river.

Rather than building yet another boring foot bridge, they built an architecturally marvellous bridge designed to blend in with the environment whilst standing on its own as a work of art.

An intentional design decision was also made to ensure that Mount Taranaki lines up perfectly within the arch.  When you visit, make sure to walk to the end of the bridge and take a photo looking back at Mount Taranaki.

7. Visit Pukekura Park

Pukekura Park is a pleasant botanical garden located right next to the busier New Plymouth city centre.  It’s worth popping over for a stroll. 

There are a couple of lookouts, playgrounds, water fountains, sculptures and small lakes. Poet’s Bridge is particularly picturesque and a great spot for a photo.

8. Enjoy a Coffee or Brunch at the New Plymouth Cafes

If you enjoy a good coffee or brunch, then make sure to check out some of the cafes around New Plymouth.  As mentioned earlier, our faves are Billor or Monica’s Eatery for a more formal brunch setting, or The Public Catering Company for some absolutely delicious snacks.

For good coffees you can also head to Escape Coffee Roasters and Ozone Coffee Roasters.

9. Watch the Sunset at Black Rock and Back Beach

Located right next to Paritutu Rock, if you time it well you can combine the climb with watching the sunset over Black Rock from Back Beach.

This black sand beach combined with rough waves make for a particularly dramatic scene, especially with the right lighting.  Otherwise, if you can’t make it during sunset then it’s also a great spot to head for a beach walk at any time.

10. Visit the Lake Mangamahoe Lookouts

Lake Managamahoe is our favourite spot to view Mount Taranaki, without having to venture too far from New Plymouth.  It’s an easy 13-minute drive from town.

If you have the time, there is an easy 5km walk around the beautiful lake which we’d love to do one day, but you can also stop off at the carpark and wander about 10-minutes along the track to a couple of great viewpoints.

We’d recommend heading here for sunset, but make sure to go on a very clear day as Mount Taranaki is quite far away.  Our photo below would’ve been better if it was a bit clearer.

11. Hike to the Summit of Mount Taranaki

Okay, this isn’t going to be realistic for most people (including us), and fortunately we generally prefer to photograph impressive landmarks rather than be in top of them.  This is why we’d recommend photographers seek out spots like Lake Mangamahoe or the Pouakai Tarns first.  

However, if you’re an avid hiker or mountaineer then you will no doubt love to attempt the hike up Mount Taranaki .  Overall, it is an 8 – 10 hour expert-level tramp that climbs 1,421m to a peak of 2,518m over 11.7km.  

If you’re a fit and experienced hiker it should be do-able during Summer, but during Winter you’ll need professional equipment and experience climbing mountains in snowy conditions.

12. Spot the Wind Wand

One of the things that makes New Plymouth such an interesting town to visit is the fact that Len Lye’s huge art works have been constructed and placed all around the town.

The Wind Wand is one such brainchild of his, a magnificent metal ‘wand’ that protrudes from the concrete along the waterfront and seemingly waves around defiantly in the wind.  

I can’t begin to imagine how it works, but it’s cooler than it looks in the photo.

13. Eat at Liardet Street Project

Liardet Street Project is a trendy, upscale food court located right in the heart of New Plymouth city centre.  It’s semi-outdoors and looks a bit scungy from the outside, but when you get in it’s just part of the vibe.

We’ve tried most of the restaurants and felt they were all decent, however, none stood out on their own.  One we didn’t try was Gamma Ray’s which we have heard has possibly the best burgers in New Plymouth, but we’ll try it next time we’re down.

It’s a cool spot though and it’s worth hanging out here for a bite to eat.

14. Drive the Surf Highway 45

The famous Surf Highway 45 is a 105km long strip of road that follows the coast as you circumvent Mount Taranaki from New Plymouth to Hawera.

Naturally, if you love surfing then this will probably be your favourite highway in the world!  But despite this, there are a bunch of attractions throughout the towns along the way, so many that some people opt to embark on a 3-4 day road trip itinerary along this highway.

Unless you are heading down to Wellington (if you are, check out our guide to the best things to do in Wellington ), then we’d instead just drive the portion up to Cape Egmont Lighthouse to get a good taste of the Surf Highway 45 before turning back to New Plymouth.

15. Check Out Cape Egmont Lighthouse

Wow, we saw some photos of Cape Egmont Lighthouse taken by some amazing photographers so naturally we made the drive out here.  The spot is stunning, set right up against a moody and rugged west coast beach, looking back at the lighthouse backdropped by the mighty Mount Taranaki.

The photo is quite easy to capture, you’ll want to head here for sunset (or optionally sunrise) with a zoom lens to line up the two focal points.

Unfortunately, when we went to scope out the place the lighthouse was under construction, I suppose it needed some repairs.  But once these repairs are complete we look forward to heading here again as it’s such a beautiful spot!

16. Walk to Dawson Falls

An hour away from New Plymouth will bring you to the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre where you can find a host of incredible walks and hikes.  

The two main hikes here are the Kapuni Loop Track to Dawson Falls and Wilkies Pools Loop Track walks.  The former is a 1-hour loop past the picturesque Dawson Falls.  The latter being a 1 hr 20min loop past Wilkies Pools which is a refreshing spot for a dip.

Hikers can also look into doing the Stratford Plateau Track that continues on from the Wilkies Pools Loop Track for a 4-hour return hike through moss-covered forest with a few interesting features along the way.

17. Grab a Pizza and Beer at Ms White

One day we were strolling through New Plymouth town wondering what to eat and ended up walking past Ms White.  It smelled great and looked trendy so we took a seat, ordered a couple of brews and a truffle pizza to share.  We can’t say no to truffle oil on anything.

Turns out they whipped up arguably the best pizza we’ve ever eaten!  We were blown away by this place, so much so that we decided to include it on a list of the best things to do in New Plymouth!  So definitely don’t miss Ms White if you love pizza.

18. Stroll or Cycle Along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway

Completing at least a portion of the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is a must-do whilst in New Plymouth.  The walkway is well-maintained and the vibe is typically best described as serene (except in a few more congested parts like the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge).

The entire New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is 13km long so walking the entire length would be a bit crazy.  We opted to walk along a few of the more interesting sections.  However, next time we go we’re planning to hire a couple of bikes and complete the entire walkway.

Cycle Inn is located in town, not far from the coastal walkway, and offers bike hire for $15 for 2-hours or $25 for a full day.  We reckon 2-hours would be plenty of time to cycle the length of the track and back.

19. Walk Out to the Three Sisters

If you’re driving from Auckland to New Plymouth, or vice versa, you’ll need to pass the Three Sisters located about an hours’ drive north of town.  

At one point, this location contained four sisters as well as Elephant Rock.  Sadly, erosion has taken away two of the four rock 25-metre rock formations as well as Elephant Rock’s trunk.  

What remains now are two of the sisters and the body of Elephant rock.  If you look carefully on a clear day you should also be able to see Mount Taranaki in the distance.

Regardless, it’s still a cool spot to visit!  The only catch is you need to time it within 2-hours either side of low tide, something which we were unable to do.

20. Explore the Whitecliffs Walkway

Along the same road you’ll find Whitecliffs Walkway  This is a 3 – 4 hour loop that returns via the beach as long as you time it well with low tide. Expect spectacular coastal views the entire way.

You’ll begin the hike by walking over farmland and the Whitecliffs Conservation Area.  To reach the beach follow the stream to the coast then walk back to your starting point along the beach.

Note: the walkway is closed during lambing season from July 1st to September 30th.

21. Grab a Drink at the Best Bars in New Plymouth

Alongside a myriad of amazing restaurants and cafes, New Plymouth has a fairly solid bar scene compared to most New Zealand towns.  If you enjoy a good craft beer or cider, head to Shining Peak Brewing, Three Sisters Brewery or Ms White.

If you’re more of the classy cocktail sipping type, then Snug Lounge is a flash Japanese restaurant serving delicious cocktails.

Or for a high-end wine experience, Itch Wine Bar looked good to us – but we didn’t want to embarrass ourselves!  We also heard the cocktails here are the best in town.

New Plymouth Accommodation

We’ve loved each trip we’ve taken to New Plymouth and every place we’ve ever stayed has been amazing, but we also get that picking can be hard so here are a few of our favourite places to stay in New Plymouth.  Make sure to check them out!

Budget Pick: Ariki Backpackers

Mid-Range Pick: King and Queen Hotel Suites (great location above some awesome spots) or The State Hotel (a bit quieter but still convenient)

How to Get to New Plymouth

New Plymouth is located a 5-hour drive from Auckland or a 4 ½-hour drive from Wellington.  Although there is an airport, most people opt to drive to New Plymouth.  

How Long Should I Spend in New Plymouth?

How long you spend in New Plymouth depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip!  If you’re working your way through a New Zealand North Island Itinerary then 2-4 days would be perfect.  But if you’re planning to do some longer hikes you may want longer.

Is New Plymouth Worth Visiting?

Absolutely!  New Plymouth is the nearest town to the impressive Mount Taranaki, an iconic dormant stratovolcano.  It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in seeing New Zealand’s most beautiful sights.

Best Time to Visit New Plymouth

New Plymouth is great to visit all year round.  The best time to visit New Plymouth is during Summer or the shoulder seasons as the conditions are clearer and the weather more tolerable when exploring the attractions.

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Food & Drink

Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, a weekender's guide to new plymouth.

Get briefed before you pack up and head to the place they call 'a little bit out there'.

Sitting on the western knob of the North Island, halfway between Auckland and Wellington, is New Plymouth — one of the country's best kept secrets and a town bored of being thrown into the same basket as Palmerston North.

The charm of the region is no longer under wraps; the destination was most recently given the reputable accolade of 'the second best region in the world to visit' by influential travel guide Lonely Planet. It was only beaten to the number one spot by Peru's mini-Machu Picchu: Choquequirao. At the heels of the mighty Mount Taranaki, or mini-Mount Fuji, you'll find a blossoming foodie paradise, a thriving and supportive arts scene, and world class festivals like WOMAD and Tropfest.

Stretching 13 kilometres along the Taranaki coastline, the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is a must when visiting New Plymouth. From Len Lye's infamous Wind Wand at the Puke Ariki Landing, head north along the winding trail past the rugged coast and popular surf beaches. Bikes can be hired along the way to make things far easier, including four person cycles from Wind Wanderers so you can ride with the whole gang, and perhaps take a rest when you need to.

For a midway drink stop, shipping container café Paris Plage boasts a fantastic al fresco area. Dump your bike on the grass, set yourself up on one of the bean bags and order the smoothie of your choice. Further along the track you'll meet the Fitzroy Surf Club. Their mocca thick shakes are world famous with locals and throw out enough buzz to keep you churning in the surf for hours. Down the wooden boardwalk, past a rolling green reserve and black sand beaches will bring you to Te Rewa Rewa bridge. Depicting either a whale rib cage or a rolling wave, the bridge on a clear day lines up perfectly with the summit of Mt Taranaki, though it still manages to provide a exceptional photo opportunity in the bleakest of weather.

In the other direction you'll come face-to-face with the colossal Paritutu Rock, a dominant feature of the Taranaki coastline. The pointy peak eroded from an ancient volcanic crater and stands at 153 metre high. It can be conquered in a 15-30-minute ascent via stairs and a white knuckle-inducing chain-led path. At the top you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the raw coastline and back to the city.

Boasting 55-acres of parkland to get lost in and a natural amphitheatre where artists perform at the foot of a lake,  WOMAD Festival has rightfully earned itself the reputation as one of the most pleasant outdoor festivals in the world— and perhaps the only place where every year audience members take a dip with the ducks and the vision of a floating dance floor is a realistic possibility. The 14th edition of the festival is set to take place from March 16 - 18, 2017 across the lush TSB Brooklands Park and Bowl.

The aim of the festival is to celebrate the world's many forms of music, arts and dance. With this year's lineup they've managed to capture that vibe perfectly with acts spanning every corner of the globe, from Chile, Lebanon, Mauritania, New Zealand and beyond.

Not entirely dedicated to music, WOMAD offers several alternative experiences across the three days. The Living Library contains human books — people on loan who are taken out by the person borrowing the book to explore different topics and create dialogue; the Global Village is an experience in itself — packed with endless rows of exotic food and drink stalls, as well as unique handmade trinkets; the Village of Wellness is the place for revitalisation after a stint in the moshpit — you'll find everything from massage, aromatherapy, readings, healings and Japanese reiki. Blending the lines between performers and attendees is a common thread. Each year the festival hosts interactive artist workshops where all kinds of exotic activities are on offer. The Nova Energy Taste the World stage is another popular element, where performers trade in their instruments for cooking utensils to showcase cuisine from their home country.

The TSB Bank Festival of Lights runs for two months every year, attracting over 100,000 punters. The highlight of the summer calendar can be found in Pukekura Park, a location so highly thought of that it retains the highest possible position on the New Zealand version of Monopoly .

From December to February the space is transformed into an illuminated wonderland and the perfect date location — it's like something out of a Hollywood rom-com. Hyper-colour art displays and light installations engulf the native bush, pathways, bridges and onsite waterfall. Illuminated canoes can also be hired for the ultimate romantic gesture.

EAT AND DRINK

Despite its small population, New Plymouth is a melting pot of fantastic and envelope-pushing eateries that wouldn't be out of place in New York or Melbourne. It's in some part due to well-travelled and well-heeled developers that have their fingers dipped into at least 13 establishments around the city. Of course, nothing would be possible without the other passionate part-owners who run and control the businesses on a daily basis. We met several, and if there's one thing they love to talk about, it's where you can find the best of everything.

Hailed as the 'Britomart of Taranaki', the  West End Precinct is a lively covered courtyard shared by half a d0zen in vogue retail stores and eateries, and one extremely enthusiastic DJ. At one end you'll find Ms White , a pizza and craft beer joint offering simple yet delicious wood-fired pizzas and nothing else. The ethos of owner Cohen Baird is to keep things simple but pull the whole thing together with quality. Hence, the craft beer list is one of the most extensive in the city, rotating each week with new additions and returning crowd favourites; the pizzas use first-rate ingredients direct from the motherland and only come in a handful of flavour combinations. We opted for the bianca-style no sauce pie, combining: prawn, preserved lemon, rocket, chilli oil. The establishment is the ideal spot for a casual afternoon session. Pull up a seat around the bar or table and see where the night takes you. The DJ won't let you down.

At the other end of the courtyard you'll find Snug Lounge , an intimate and classy Japanese restaurant-come-raging bar. It takes inspiration from Auckland's subterranean yakitori and kushiage joint, Tanuki's Cave, providing a menu of small sharing plates. High points include the trio of steamed pork buns, the prawn, chill in and ginger dumplings (on the smallest plate in the world), Japanese tacos and the nori fried chicken. Due to the palate of locals, some dishes have been toned down to suit. The cocktails are flaunted as the 'best in Taranaki'; a big call but something they actually manage to pull off with a flair you wouldn't typically expect to find in small town New Zealand. The menu is listed by strength— it begins with light summery drops incorporating Aperol and Pimms before making its way through reimagined classics like a pineapple rum Old Fashioned, through to booze milkshakes that do the unthinkable and mix dairy with spirits. From the 'short and sour' section, the Green Fairy is our pick, combining white rum, green apple, passionfruit and a rinse of absinthe.

Adjacent to the Govett-Brewster Gallery is Monica's Eatery , an ode to the life and spirit of Monica Govett-Brewster, a founding member of the world class gallery. Much like the work found in the gallery, the café drips contemporary charm; the room is flooded with light from large windows while the decor is fresh with natural blonde wood, fish bowl lighting and comfortable booth seating.

The coffee is just one of the reasons people visit Monica's. Thanks to a few particularly valuable baristas, the java is what plenty of locals make sure to point out is the best in town.

The menu is made up of breakfast staples including a remarkably fresh almond milk chia pudding with seasonal fruit, a quartet of bruschetta, ham off the bone eggs benedict, as well as lesser featured early morning dishes like smoked kahwhai kedgeree and portobello gnocchi. On a summer's day, the small outdoor area would be the ideal place to tick-off the drinks list.

Down the west end of Devon St, inside the lime green art deco building is a wee hidden treasure. The former ice cream parlour now hosts The Federal Store , an amalgamation of a '50s diner and hipster café— waitresses don head scarves, booth seating borders the room and a mish mash of nostalgic nicknacks are scattered in every direction.

The eatery is the go-to for young locals looking for caffeine assistance on the weekend morning. This particular visit it was heaving and was even witness to a pregnancy announcement. In line with the decor the food is predominantly 'American diner', offering delights like a brunch quesadilla topped with beans and two fried eggs, huevos rancheros that come with tortillas, spicy beans, bacon, and relish, and a beef and bacon burger with slaw and curly fries. The cabinet looks equally as impressive, loaded with brioche donuts, salads and quiche.

Owner Jeremy is no stranger to good coffee and has put his passion to practise to create the café's own signature blend The Fed with local roastery OZONE Coffee.

The idea of Social Kitchen comes directly from the owners' own dining habits — more often than not situated around the kitchen with friends and with moderate drinking between courses. It's one of few restaurants in the city offering family-style shared plates, a concept that some Taranakians are still trying to grasp as they sit shackled to the ancient concept of meat and three vege.

The eatery is perfect for groups; long tables take up the centre of the room and bench seating to one side is packed with diners digging into plates between conversation. One large round table at the end of the room is equipped to host a dozen diners, and in our seating transformed from a raucous ladies night to a birthday catchup. It's fair to say that the atmosphere is lively.

Christchurch-born kinetic and film artist Len Lye has a special bond with Taranaki. His work can be seen in several locations around the city; the most recognisable being the waterfront's 48-metre Wind Wand . Attached to the Govett-Brewster Gallery, the Len Lye Centre (pictured above) is the repository for much of his collection and the first gallery in New Zealand dedicated entirely to a single artist. The structure's undulating stainless steel exterior is a major landmark in the CBD, a work of art in itself, and gives great insight into groundbreaking artist and his obsession with 'art of movement'.

Inside you'll find an evolving collection of pieces including Trilogy (A Flip and Two Twisters) — a dramatic display of three large steel sheets suspended from the ceiling; one large loop and two long strips. The motorised performance can be heard throughout the gallery as they flail and crash— a sound described by Lye himself as 'icicles tumbling down your back'. Earmuffs are available due to the thunderous volume of the work, which reaches up to 100 decibels.

Until March 27, other work featured includes some of his smaller kinetic pieces like Moon Bead ,  Witch Dance ,  Storm King ,  Roundhead  and Rotating Harmonic ,   as well as a selection of his experimental visual work that uses exposed and scratched film to create animations. One particularly intriguing piece is Pictures for Percussion that combines abstract images on 16mm film and a haunting soundtrack of African drums.

You won't find classical oil paintings at the Govett-Brewster — it's all about the contemporary. Its current exhibition All Lines Converge  is a striking display of work looking at the important role of women within the gallery's history, with a focus on the Pacific Rim and New Zealand.

Auckland collective et al. investigate ideas related to group culture and beliefs with a strong piece that reimagines the architecture conditions of indigenous housing; Fiona Clark presents three photographic series illustrating the culture significance of the Waitara River, the female elders of the Taranaki region and three art students performing on Whatipu Beach; Maree Horner's Diving Board, first made in 1974,   confronts the gulf between visual and physical participation, between seeing and doing.

Stephen Heard visited New Plymouth courtesy of Venture Taranaki and stayed at the city's newest boutique hotel, King and Queen — a 17-suite hotel opposite both major galleries and surrounding the thriving West End Precinct.

Image: Michael Flynn.

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New Plymouth

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.4 By train

New Plymouth is the largest city with an urban population of 58,000 (2021) in the Taranaki region, on the western coast of North Island in New Zealand , about midway between Auckland and Wellington , but well to the west. It lies on the coastal plains just to the north-west of Mount Taranaki (Egmont).

Understand [ edit ]

New Plymouth is the main centre of the Taranaki region.

The area has enjoyed the benefits of oil, gas and petrochemical activity and some of the public facilities in the city reflect this relative prosperity.

Modernisation has begun in the CBD with many new eateries and bars opening up, including boutique designer stores and artisanal producers.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Air New Zealand Link operates services from Auckland , Christchurch and Wellington , with 6–7 return flights daily to each, using 50-seat turboprop aircraft. On the rare days when Mount Taranaki is totally free of cloud, southbound flights can get spectacular views of the mountaintop.

By bus [ edit ]

National bus operator InterCity Coachlines provides daily services in and out of New Plymouth and the Taranaki region with connections throughout the North Island. Fares start from just $1 and can be purchased online or via numerous local agents including the i-SITE information network. Services arrive and depart from the main bus terminal at 19 Ariki St in the city centre.

By car [ edit ]

State Highway 3 passes through New Plymouth.

From the north ( Auckland or Hamilton ): State Highway 3 diverges from State Highway 1 at Hamilton and runs via Te Kuiti in the King Country and Waitara in Taranaki . New Plymouth is about 270 km from Hamilton and takes at least 3.5 hours by car, though allow 4.5 hours to be safe. A section of this road is narrow, winding, and includes a short single-lane tunnel. It is prone to closure by slips in bad weather.

From the south ( Wellington and Palmerston North ): Travel via State Highway 1 and/or State Highway 3 to Bulls then via State Highway 3 through Whanganui to Hawera , then inland via Stratford (which always has petrol 2c a litre cheaper than the standard price) and Inglewood . Wellington to New Plymouth is about 360 km and takes 4.5 - 5.5 hours non-stop, depending on traffic near Wellington; allow 6 - 7 hours including scenic and rest stops.

State Highway 45 , The Surf Highway , which follows the coast (though seldom in sight of it) around the west of the mountain, via Opunake , is ~25 km longer and hillier, but scenic, alternative route from Hawera. Allow an extra half hour over travelling State Highway 3 direct.

State Highway 43 , The Forgotten World Highway , intersects State Highway 3 at Stratford . This can be an interesting alternative trip from the Central North Island via Taumarunui . The road winds and climbs for 160 km and includes about 30km unsealed though a spectacularly beautiful gorge. It's worth stopping at the numerous historical information boards along the way. Allow 4-6 hours. (There is no petrol available between Stratford and Taumarunui and this highway section is difficult to maintain.)

By train [ edit ]

On rare occasions, a steam engine can be seen on the track. This most likely will be from the Waitara Railway Preservation Society, which runs the engine between Waitara and Lepperton.

Get around [ edit ]

Within the city of New Plymouth, walking is certainly an attractive option. There is the very nice walking "path" or coastal promenade which gives the walked a good view of the Tasman Sea as well as being close to the downtown business section of the city. Important amenities such as the Library, the Botanical Gardens and other shopping are within easy walking distance of this coastal promenade.

There are buses on eleven routes on weekdays, branded as Citylink, supported by Taranaki Regional Council. On Saturday buses run on two routes, and none run on Sunday. Within New Plymouth a single fare is $3.70.

See [ edit ]

• -39.057 174.0718 1 Puke Ariki , 1 Ariki St . M-F 9AM-6PM (W until 9PM), Sa Su 9AM-5PM . Museum, library, visitor information centre, restaurant and cafe. Free entry.  
• -39.0585 174.0698 2 Govett-Brewster Art Gallery , Queen St . W F-M 10AM—6PM, Th 10AM—9PM . One of New Zealand's finest collections of Modern Art. Has a very good cafe and gift shop. Attached to it is the Len Lye Centre , which opened in 2015 in a shiny new extension and houses a collection of works by kinetic artist Len Lye. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• -39.0641 174.0786 3 Pukekura Park . Daily 7:30AM - 7PM (8PM during daylight savings) . The city's botanical gardens. Excellent and well worth walking around. There are themed garden areas, small ponds and "lakes", attractive bridges and wonderful trails. Attached to the park is Brooklands a further large park, with concert stage and a small zoo. free . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• -39.07765 174.08466 5 TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum , Dean Park, Brooklands Road . Tu F Sa 10AM-2:30PM . The world's only lawn bowls museum. Donation of at least $1 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• Kina NZ Art and Design Space , 101 Devon St West , ☏ +64 6759 1201 . M-F 9AM - 5:30PM, Sa 9:30AM - 4PM, Su 11AM - 4PM . Commercial art gallery free . ( updated Dec 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

• -39.069 174.0832 1 WOMAD , Bowl of Brooklands . March . The World of Music, Arts and Dance festival.  

• The Festival Of Lights , Pukekura Park . Runs annually for about 8 weeks in December and January. The beautiful Pukekura Park in the centre of New Plymouth is lit up, with live entertainment and activities for all ages. A winter festival of lights is held in the CBD in June, the next is 27 - 30 June 2024. ( updated Mar 2024 )
• -39.06272 174.07379 2 New Plymouth Observatory , Marsland Hill, Robe St . Nov-Feb: Tu only 8:30-10PM; Mar-Oct: Tu only 7:30-9:30PM . Volunteer run observatory $5 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• Precision Helicopters Ltd , toll-free: 0800 246 359 . Scenic flights around New Plymouth and nationwide air charter services. from $480 for four people . ( updated Oct 2015 )
• -39.06127 174.07779 3 Model train rides ( New Plymouth Society of Model & Experimental Engineers Inc ), Corner Gilbert and Liardet Streets , ☏ +64 27 561 9056 . Su 2PM-4PM (weather dependent) . Volunteer run sit-on model railway, offers rides around a track on a house sized plot. $2 . ( updated Feb 2024 )

Buy [ edit ]

• -39.05818 174.07819 1 New World Supermarket , 78 Courtenay St . Daily 7AM - 11PM . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• -39.057 174.0811 2 Pak'nSave Supermarket , 53 Leach St . Daily 8AM - 10PM . ( updated Nov 2015 )

Eat [ edit ]

• India Today , 40 Devon St . A great place for Northern Indian food. around $30 .  
• -39.05863 174.07184 1 Pankawalla , 85 Devon Street West . Good Indian cuisine.  

Drink [ edit ]

• Crowded House Bar & Cafe , 93 - 99 Devon Street East .  

Sleep [ edit ]

• -39.058 174.0551 1 Belt Road Holiday Park , 2 Belt Rd, Moturoa ( located on the south end of the coastal walkway within easy distance of the city centre. ). The campground has an excellent view out over the Tasman Sea to the north-west as well as the city's harbour just below and with a view of Mt Egmont to the south east when it's clear. tents $22, cabins from $70 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• -39.05763 174.0671 2 Dawson Motel , 16 Dawson Street , ☏ +64 6 7581177 , toll-free: 0800 581 177 . Good 23 unit family run motel (built in 2011) with studios and 1 & 2 bedroom units. Some rooms have a sea view, ask if that is your preference. Rooms have microwave, toaster and kettle. $175-305 .  
• -39.0572 174.0741 3 Quest Serviced Apartments , 21 Currie Street , ☏ +64 6 7585483 . Apartment style accommodation comprising of 41 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom self-contained apartments in the current Post Office Building  
• -39.0481 174.0995 4 Beach Street Motel Apartments ( formerley Fitzroy Beach Motel ), 25 Beach St, Fitzroy ( two minutes drive from New Plymouth ), ☏ +64 6 757 2925 . Opened in 2009, luxury motel. Free bikes for hire and usage on the proximal coastal walkway. 200m from a lifeguard patrolled beach. from $120 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• -39.064205 174.091539 5 Timandra Motel , 31B Timandra Street, New Plymouth ( from the south, turn right off State Highway 3 onto Timandra Street, drive to the end of Timandra Street and turn left into the motel ), ☏ +64 6 7586006 . Check-in: 1400 , check-out: 1000 . The Timandra Motel is a quiet yet centrally located motel at the end of Timandra Street, a no exit road just off State Highway 3. The motel has extensive gardens and offers a mixture of 1 & 2 bedroom en-suite accommodation, suitable for individuals, couples or family groups. $99-200 .  

Connect [ edit ]

• New Plymouth Public Library has free Internet and WiFi access during library hours.

Go next [ edit ]

• Mt Taranaki (Mt Egmont National Park) is a short drive from New Plymouth. There is a Visitor Centre at the Park Headquarters and many trails up and around the mountain start there. The Visitor Centre is at an elevation of around 900 m so if you plan to hike higher, the summit is another 1600 metres above you. Watch the weather because it can change quickly.
• Stratford - inland Taranaki town

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New Plymouth travel guide

New plymouth tourism | new plymouth guide, you're going to love new plymouth.

With a population of 49 168, New Plymouth is the largest city in Taranaki, New Zealand by the number of inhabitants. It is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country. We recommend you stay at least 3 days in order to fully appreciate everything New Plymouth has to offer.

Where to Eat in New Plymouth

If you’re looking for affordable options, Social Kitchen (40 Powderham Street) and Cobb & Co. New Plymouth (198 Courtenay Street) are great picks.

When to visit New Plymouth

Looking for warm weather? Then head to New Plymouth in February, when the average temperature is 17 °C, and the highest can go up to 21 °C. The coldest month, on the other hand, is June, when it can get as cold as 6 °C, with an average temperature of 9 °C. You’re likely to see more rain in July, when precipitation is around 160 mm. In contrast, March is usually the driest month of the year in New Plymouth, with an average rainfall of 90 mm.

How to Get to New Plymouth

When flying to New Plymouth, you’ll arrive at New Plymouth (NPL), which is located 10 km from the city centre.

Another option to get to New Plymouth is to pick up a car hire from Auckland, which is about 253 km from New Plymouth. You’ll find branches of Mode Car & Camper Rentals and Autounion Car Rental, among others, in Auckland.

Airports near New Plymouth

Airlines serving new plymouth, where to stay in new plymouth.

Average rates range from around $144 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $102 and up for a 5-star experience.

Where to stay in popular areas of New Plymouth

Most booked hotels in new plymouth, hiring a car in new plymouth.

Hiring a car in New Plymouth costs $84 per day, on average, or $252 if you want to hire it for 3 days.

It’s generally cheaper to hire your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 2% cheaper than airport locations in New Plymouth.

Expect to pay $2.76 per litre in New Plymouth (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your car hire, filling up the tank will cost between $33.12 and $44.16. The most frequently booked car type in New Plymouth is Intermediate (Class Intermediate SUV or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Supplier choice car hire (Class Special Car or similar) is, on average, 37% cheaper than other car hire types in the city.

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Travel Guide

10 outdoor things to do and see in new plymouth.

North Island, New Zealand

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• Mount Taranaki
• Surf highway

Taranaki has spectacular outdoor places to go from a short fantasy walk in Mount Egmont National Park to a stunning coastal path in New Plymouth. Things to do in Taranaki embrace the outdoors with driftwood beaches where surfers challenge the elements. New Plymouth and Taranaki are the home to beautiful gardens and parks. Taranaki is the gateway to three National Parks with the iconic Mount Egmont is the rockstar for the province’s charms. Your Taranaki guide, things to do showcases New Plymouth’s funky festivals full of light and sound. Visit fascinating museums and enjoy delicious food destinations. And it is guaranteed you will return to the bump on the map that is Taranaki.

1. Festival of Light

An outstanding garden, lights, sound and glittering sparkles brightening up the summer evening.

The festival is an outstanding imaginative use of a public space for light installations in Pukekura Park, New Plymouth. The festival is free entry, during the school holidays making it a great reason to put Taranaki on the bucket list.

Here’s a handy link to get you excited, click here for details TSB Festival of Lights .

2. Goblin Forest Walk

Need some inspiration for kids during the school holidays in Taranaki. There is a local favourite, the Goblin Forest Walk. The Kamahi trees have grown over the remains of a forest destroyed by an eruption approximately 500 years ago. There is a  labyrinth of twisted trunks, all covered in a green, mist coated  moss that inspires thoughts about fantasy creatures. The goblin trail or Kamahi loop track is a hunt for fairies, hobbits, Kamahi Loop Track: Walking and tramping in Egmont National Park, Taranaki region is a 600m loop walk so even the shortest legs can manage the journey. Check out Egmont National Park for details about twelve park walks. And remember to pack swimmers as there are a series of rock pools at the end of the track for paddling in.

3. Fitzroy beach

New Plymouth has the powerful surf beach Fitzoy beach at its doorstep. Fitzoy is officially part of Surf Highway 45. There is a popular camping ground nearby making it an easy spot for surfers to congregate year round.

The Surf Life Saving crew ensures kids are safe and swimmers can make use of the beach during the hot summer. It is a perfect place for people watching with your fish and chips.

For beach buffs the iconic Surf Highway is not to be missed.

4. Egmont National Park and And Manganui Ski field

The glorious picture postcard mountain that is permanently etched against the horizon (unless it is foggy).  The year round icing of snow makes the mountain a tourism advertising staple.  A great place for walks ranging from short to multiple days.

For winter holidays a rustic, no frills ski field is a great family option with New Plymouth offering plenty of warm indoors to keep non-ski buffs happy.

5. Drive surf highway

Check out the area, the small towns of Eltham and Hawera and beyond, drive Surf Highway 45 stretches from Hawera to New Plymouth.

The 102 km road leads to beaches with names such as Graveyard, Kumara Patch and Dump. There are numerous black sand surf beaches where you will see the lyra clad surfers paddling their boards.

There are cafes, the Cape Egmont Lighthouse and a lavender farm to pop into while cruising the surf highway.

6. Sugar Loaf Island seal colony

Kayak to Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Reserve and check out the seal colony. The special marine outcrops are the remnants of a volcanic cone. It is also a favourite spot for snorkelling due to the cliffs and canyons inhabiting the reserve. For details or to book an experience check out for further information CHADDY’S CHARTERS – Island cruises and sightseeing in New Plymouth.

7. Waitara River Kayaking

White water rafting does not get any better than the wild east coast rivers of New Zealand and the Waitara River will not disappoint. It is not the slick operations of the crowded tourist areas of Queenstown and Taupo. Rather it is rustic, natural and you feel as though it is you and the river without the crowds (except for the occasional fly fishing buff. In the lower reaches of the river children (6 years and above) can be introduced to kayaking.

For details click here for further information Waitara River Kayak Tour . And, it is very reasonably priced for those visitors where budget is a big consideration about deciding to pay for activities.

8. Dawson Falls

Of course there is a waterfall, it’s New Zealand and Dawson Falls with its 18m drop does not disappoint. The Dawson Falls or Te Rere o Noke (the Falls of Noke) are named after Noke who hid from his pursuers behind the falls. From the Visitor Centre, walk 400 metres down Manaia Road to get to the Dawson Falls walk entrance.

The walk from the road entrance is suitable for all fitness levels and takes 10 minutes to reach the lookout point. Combine this walk with your Goblin adventure.

9. Cape Egmont Lighthouse

For lighthouse fans, photographers this is a must stop place on the Surf Highway. The lighthouse is now automated and the keeper’s cottage is now a private residence. For details about the lighthouse click here Cape Egmont lighthouse maritime history. The lighthouse was originally erected on Mana Island, it was moved to Cape Egmont in 1877. You are close to Patea, check out What’s so great about Patea for things to do in the area.

TIP: Get there at sunset as the iconic Mount Taranaki, the lighthouse and the landscape make a glorious contrast with hills, tipped snow covered mountains and rural pastoral foreground landscape.

10. Dam Dropping Normandy Hydro-Electric rapids

Water, swimming and is it safe Safe to swim ? for water quality and Taranaki Outdoor Adventures has added a local twist to rafting with Normandy Dam Dropping as a summer sport.

The Waingongoro River and its generating station ceased operating in 1967.

Today the 5.5 metre hydroelectric dam rapids are rafted on anything inflatable, and for more water wild fun check Activities monitored by Taranaki Outdoor Pursuits and Education Centre.

Getting there

BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE .

Related articles

10 one of kind Taranaki places worth a detour

Eltham travel guide

Hawera travel guide

Top 7 things to do in New Plymouth

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