From a dramatic surf coastline to iconic Mount Taranaki, this is a region steeped in history and featuring remarkable landscapes, gardens and galleries.

Taranaki invites you to get off the tourist trail and create your own authentic New Zealand experience. Just far enough away to escape the outside world, this lushly beautiful region of vivid greenery, rural landscapes, a long, curving ribbon of black sand beaches, world renowned gardens and a perfect cone-shaped mountain lies waiting to be discovered.

The perfect place for an inspiring road trip, you can meander along winding river gorges and quiet highways splashed by surf under the gaze of Mount Taranaki. The bustling port city of New Plymouth offers excellent accommodation and dining, as well as galleries and boutiques, a 7 km coastal walkway, aquatic activities and beautiful parks. Whether you crave an adventure in a forgotten wilderness or an afternoon at one of Australasia’s top contemporary art galleries, Taranaki will stir your soul.

Destination-nz.com highlights

Strap a surfboard to the roof and dig out your Beach Boys CD – take a road trip along Surf Highway 45. Pause for breath as you climb the slopes of the iconic Mount Taranaki, declared by 17th century explorer Abel Tasman as “the nobliest hill I’ve ever seen.” Let the sights and sounds of the sea revitalise you as you breathe the salt air and sink into the warm black sand. Gaze at a dazzling fire sunset over the open water as another perfect day in New Zealand comes to an end.

Notable culture

In addition to its down-country charm, the western North Island is internationally renowned for its art galleries – don’t miss the famous Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.

Moment in history

In 1989 regional council boundaries were redrawn and the town of Whangamomona was made part of the neighbouring Manawatu-Wanganui Region. The locals were a bit upset and demonstrated their disappointment by declaring themselves a republic. Independence Day celebrations are now held every second January, when visitors have to purchase a passport before entering the small republic, and activities such as gumboot throwing, possum skinning and sheep racing are held in the main street.

The iconic experience

Join a Maori guide for an unforgettable journey into cultural history on Mount Taranaki, learning about Maori legends and myths, food and the significance the mountain played in the region’s past.

Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More