On the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island lies New Plymouth, one of the country’s prettiest cities. In rhododendron season, the city’s parks and gardens spring to life with vivid colour and vitality. With its sunny climate, art galleries, and stunning parks offset by the beautiful backdrop of Mount Taranaki off in the distance, it’s the perfect place for a long weekend or an extended holiday.
Egmont National Park and Mount Taranaki
Egmont National Park offers visitors plenty of great activities, from the imposing heights of Mount Taranaki, to lush waterfalls, rainforests, and mossy swamps, all waiting to be explored.
Mount Taranaki is New Zealand's picture-perfect volcano and bears a striking resemblance to Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji. The volcano is around 120,000 years old, and having last erupted in 1775 has now been certified dormant by volcanologists.
The mountain is frequently referred to as New Zealand’s most climbed mountain because it offers inexperienced climbers the opportunity to tackle an achievable summit. At lower altitudes, you'll encounter tall rimu and kamahi trees – while higher up the volcano, sub-alpine shrubs and herb fields grow above the snow line. Lush rainforest can also be found on the mountain’s slopes due to the area’s high rainfall and mild coastal climate.
Egmont National Park’s network of walking tracks is extensive, ranging from a short 15 minute stroll along the Kamahi Track, to the three-day Pouakai Circuit. There's an entire maze of tracks around the Dawson Falls area, including the walk to Wilkies Pools, which is a series of eroded rock pools connected by gentle waterfalls. Make sure to plan ahead and pick a walk that will suit you.
Museums and Galleries
Back in town, down at the New Plymouth waterfront, you’ll find Puke Ariki, a wonderful museum and heritage centre, as well as the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre – which 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.
A Walk in Pukekura Park and a Seaside Stroll
Pukekura Park is beautiful all year round. It’s the perfect place for a stroll in nature, with perfectly manicured gardens, individually curated, each with its own unique charm. In summer, Pukekura Park is the backdrop for the annual TSB Festival of Lights, when the park comes to life with a full spectrum of colours lighting up the trees and water features.
Waitara River Kayaking
For those looking to get even closer to nature, the Waitara River offers a very safe introduction to the thrill of white water rafting. On this scenic grade 2 rated stretch of water, you’ll wind through native bush, past cliff faces, farmland and under the historic Bertrand Road Suspension Bridge.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy fresh water swimming, fun rapids, and a nice lunch. Those of a nervous disposition needn’t worry – friendly, experienced and qualified instructors guide you all the way along while you learn about the cultural and historical significance of the river and surrounding area.
