Take a day or two to drive Surf Highway 45, the 105-kilometre stretch of highway that hugs the coastline between New Plymouth and Hawera and links the region’s urban centres with legendary surf spots. Taranaki’s coastline collects 180 degrees of ocean swells, ensuring that the surf is always pumping somewhere in the region. But you don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy the drive – with superb views, stunning sunsets and access to Egmont National Park, there are plenty of reasons to explore. Go horse riding along the black sand beaches and play a round of golf at one of the five courses scattered along the highway. Take a slight detour off the highway to visit Cape Egmont Lighthouse and check out the many artisan galleries along the way.
