Vt0476 must do experiences update 2017 web

Taranaki has a wonderfully vibrant events calendar, with something for everyone. Here are some of our favourites, throughout the year.

A&P SHOWS

BOWLARAMA BREAKER BAY CHARTERS BROOKLANDS ZOO CHADDY’S CHARTERS COASTAL WALKWAY FITZROY BEACH (AND POOL) GOVETT-BREWSTER ART GALLERY/ LEN LYE CENTRE LEE BREAKWATER PUKE ARIKI PUKEKURA PARK PUKEKURA RACEWAY RUMPUS ROOM SEASIDE MARKETS SILK SPA TARANAKI CATHEDRAL TOUR TARANAKI THERMAL SPA TE HENUI WALKWAY TO TE KAINGA MARIRE TE REWA REWA BRIDGE TODD ENERGY AQUATIC CENTRE WIND WANDERERS

WAITARA WEST BEACH & LOOKOUT WALK

Waitara

PARITUTU BACK BEACH

SANTA’S CHOICE CHRISTMAS SHOP

New Plymouth

TUPARE

OAKURA ARTS TRAIL OAKURA BEACH

WESTOWN GOLF CLUB

CAPE EGMONT LIGHTHOUSE

Egmont Village

STONEY OAKS FUN HO Inglewood TOYS

POUAKAI ZOO

NORTH EGMONT VISITOR CENTRE

Pungarehu

Rahotu

HIKING ON MT TARANAKI

WILKIES POOLS DAWSON FALLS

3

Oaonui

HOLLARD GARDENS

Opunake

LAKE ROTOKARE

Te Roti

Pihama

Oeo

TE REWA REWA BRIDGE

Kaupokonui Otakeho

DAM DROPPING TE NGUTU GOLF COURSE

Manaia

WOMAD

Three days of music and culture from world music superstars.

When: March Contact: 06 759 8412, www.taft.co.nz/womad

Normanby

NEW PLYMOUTH COASTAL WALKWAY TAWHITI MUSEUM WATER TOWER

Hawera

Taranaki’s

A fun-filled day of country-style entertainment celebrates the township’s self-declared republic status.

When: Biennial, Jan/Feb Contact: 06 762 5552

Eltham VINTAGE SHOPS

OPUNAKE BEACH

PLEASE NOTE: All information correct at time of press, but operator services, hours, and contact details may change without notice.

To Waverley & Waitotara

C7 DESIGN/VT0393/06-15 Photos: Supplied by Rob Tucker, Venture Taranaki, Peter Florence, Mark Harris & Brooklands Zoo Patea

MUST EATS & DRINKS

Taranaki’s Must Do’s

There are many great spots in Taranaki to wine and dine, grab a quick meal, sit with a coffee or catch up over a drink. The locals recommend the following:

Your guide to the best experiences, attractions, activities, eats and drinks, as voted by the Taranaki community.

RESTAURANTS

CAFÉS

BARS

TAKEAWAYS

Book a table and dine out at one of the region’s favourite restaurants or bistros.

We love our cafés in Taranaki – here are some of the favourite spots for a coffee and a catch up.

Fancy a drink? Here are the region’s favourite watering holes.

Want to grab a quick bite or treat? Check out these favourites.

ARBORIO Italian inspired bistro menu overlooking the coast.

Puke Ariki, 65 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 759 1241

BACH ON BREAKWATER Extensive menu, gluten free options and a seaside local.

Breakwater Bay, Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth.

06 769 6967

GUSTO A-la-carte menu on the waterfront. Breakwater Bay, Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth. 06 759 8133

WHANGAMOMONA REPUBLIC DAY

BECK HELICOPTERS ARTY LOO

Kaponga

TARANAKI INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

The world’s largest short film festival is an outdoor screening of the best of NZ film.

When: Jan/Feb. Where: Brooklands Park Drive, New Plymouth Contact: 06 759 8412, www.tropfest.co.nz

FORGOTTEN WORLD HIGHWAY

Stratford Toko

Watch a theatrical or musical performance in the grand old theatre.

Where: 92-100 Devon St West, New Plymouth Contact: 06 759 6712, www.tsbshowplace.co.nz

TROPFEST

Strathmore

STRATFORD SPEEDWAY

PIONEER VILLAGE PERCY THOMSON GALLERY

BELLA VITA A range of Italian inspired dishes to suit all palates.

146 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 758 3393

This biennial festival offers a range of exciting theatre, cabaret, music and dance performances.

When: Aug/Sept Contact: 06 759 8412, www.taft.co.nz

Whangamomona

PUKEITI

MOUNT TARANAKI

NZ TATTOO AND ART FESTIVAL

SEE A SHOW AT THE TSB SHOWPLACE

WHANGAMOMONA HOTEL & FORGOTTEN WORLD ADVENTURES

Tariki

A wonderland of lights, displays and events in the iconic Pukekura Park.

When: Dec/Jan Contact: 06 759 6060, www.festivaloflights.co.nz

NZ’s premier spring festival offers superb gardens and a stimulating events programme.

When: Oct/Nov Contact: 06 759 8412, www.gardenfestnz.co.nz

CAPE EGMONT LIGHTHOUSE

MEETING OF THE WATERS LAKE MANGAMAHOE

Oakura

TSB BANK FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

POWERCO GARDEN SPECTACULAR

Urenui

Warea

TSB BOWL OF BROOKLANDS SUMMER CONCERTS

Australasia’s biggest tattoo event featuring hundreds of the world’s finest tattoo artists and tattoo models plus art displays, stalls, food and entertainment.

When: Nov Contact: 021 311 462, www.nztattooart.com

3 WHITECLIFFS WALK

NGAMOTU LINKS GOLF COURSE

Okato

A celebration of American cars and culture, complete with parades, displays and family fun.

When: Feb/Mar. Contact: 06 759 0027, www.americarna.com

Head along to a world-class concert at this natural outdoor amphitheatre.

Where: Brooklands Park Drive, New Plymouth Contact: 06 759 6060, www.npeventvenues.nz

Parininihi

Must Do’s

AMERICARNA

SURF HIGHWAY 45

FISHING AT LEE BREAKWATER

Tongaporutu

Your guide to the best experiences, attractions, activities, eats and drinks, as voted by the Taranaki community.

Experience the magic of rural Taranaki with motorcycle displays, sheep racing, ponies, dog trials, rides, vegetables and baking and plenty for the kids.

Egmont A&P Show Where: 6 Burnside Ave, Hawera When: Fourth weekend of Nov. each year Contact: 06 278 8613, www.egmontshowgrounds.org.nz Stratford A&P Show Where: Flint Rd, Stratford When: Third weekend of Nov. each year Contact: 06 765 6173, www.stratfordshow.co.nz

NEW PLYMOUTH

For more information visit:

SUNSET AT FITZROY BEACH

www.visit.taranaki.info

EVENTS

To Hamilton

TO MOKAU RIVER CRUISES & RIVER TOURS

DELUXE DINER An American-style diner with large portions and fantastic service. 36 Leach St, New Plymouth. 06 757 5300

INDIA TODAY Traditional Indian tandoor restaurant.

40 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 769 9117 MARBLES BUFFET AND THE ROCKS Situated at the Devon Hotel, enjoy fabulous family-friendly buffet dining at Marbles Buffet or a cosy bar at The Rocks.

390 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 9099 SALT Stunning views are rivalled by the a-la-carte menu.

1 Egmont St, New Plymouth. 06 769 5304 STRATFORD MOUNTAIN HOUSE Dine in a truly unique location on the slopes of the mountain.

Pembroke Rd, Stratford. 06 765 6100 SUSHI NINJA Fresh and authentic, rolled sushi, bento, donburi and more.

89 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 1392 TABLE Luxurious décor accompany an extensive wine list and seasonal menu. 71 Brougham St, New Plymouth. 06 758 6423

CAFFÉ WINDSOR A trend-setting café with a legendary brunch menu.

1 Kelly St, Inglewood. 06 756 6665 CHAOS Huge cabinet selection, famous hot chocolate and fun décor.

36 Brougham St, New Plymouth. 06 759 8080 INFLAME CAFÉ Coffee, home-baked goods, soup, curries and more.

139 High St, Eltham. 06 764 8272 MANOU’S Unique and fun. Great food and a spectacular view.

Breakwater Bay, Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth.

06 757 4322 OZONE BEANSTORE A coffee lover’s dream; straight from the on-site roastery.

47A King St, New Plymouth. 06 757 5054 PETIT PARIS French style patisserie, décor and menu.

34 Currie St, New Plymouth. 06 759 0398 SEASONAL OUTDOOR CAFES In summer, choose food with a view: Paris Plage – East End Reserve, New Plymouth. 06 759 0398 Holy Guacamole – Tasman Parade, Oakura. 021 204 9983 THE FEDERAL STORE Retro vibe and great menu in this suburban staple.

440 Devon St East, Strandon. 06 757 8147 THE WELL CAFÉ Meet, eat and relax. 158 High St, Eltham. 06 764 8101

CROWDED HOUSE Enjoy the atmosphere or watch a game at this vibrant sports bar. 93-99 Devon St East, New Plymouth. 06 759 4921 FREDERIC’S Popular with the after work crowd ‘Fred’s’ is cosy and welcoming. 34 Egmont St, New Plymouth. 06 759 1227 OUR PLACE Cool and stylish, grab a booth or a couch and chill.

75 Devon St East, New Plymouth 06 758 8561 SNUG LOUNGE A very stylish lounge bar in an iconic venue.

124 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 757 9130 THE BLACK HARP A trendy Irish pub full of music and shenanigans.

31 Gover St, New Plymouth. 06 758 5373 THE GOOD HOME Seven unique spaces to enjoy in this popular pub and bistro.

21 Ariki St, New Plymouth. 06 758 4740 THE HOUR GLASS Specialising in craft beer, quality wine, classic cocktails and a delicious tapas menu. 49 Liardet St, New Plymouth.

06 758 2299

BLOW FISH TAKEAWAY Fish and chips, Chinese and more.

406 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 759 1314 DAVEY’S PATCH PIZZA Pizzas are the name of the game.

147 High St, Eltham. 06 764 8747 FUNK FISH GRILL Huge burgers, crispy chips and a great seafood selection.

32 Matai St, Inglewood, New Plymouth. 06 756 7287 IONA DAIRY ICECREAM Enjoy super-sized ice creams in all your favourite flavours.

204 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 758 0265 OKATO FISH AND CHIP SHOP The favourite fish and chip shop down the coast, perfect after a surf. 63 Carthew St, Okato. 06 752 4363 OSCARS INGLEWOOD TAKEAWAY Gourmet pies, doughnuts, fudge, scones and fish and chips.

Rata St, Inglewood. 06 756 7574 PITA PIT A pita pocket filled with all of your favourite ingredients.

63 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 757 4748

THE MAYFAIR Spacious and stylish, this old theatre has vintage cool and often features live events.

69 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 759 2088

TERRY’S TAKEAWAYS Pick up for your fish, chips, burgers, hot chicken and Chinese food here and then enjoy a picnic by the sea.

309 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth. 06 758 4807

TREEHOUSE BAR AND BISTRO Experience home away from home with a great atmosphere and a roaring fire. 471 Devon St West, New Plymouth. 06 751 1848

YOGET Frozen yoghurt meets all of the fruit, nuts, lollies and sauces that you can imagine. 61 Devon St West, New Plymouth.

06 757 9299

WESTSIDE GRILLE A stylish bar situated next door to Yarrow Stadium. 41 Tukapa St, Westown, New Plymouth. 06 758 4430

Visitor information, maps, souvenirs, internet facilities, and accommodation, activity and transport bookings for Taranaki and all of New Zealand are available from:

NEW PLYMOUTH i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE Puke Ariki, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth Email: info@newplymouth.govt.nz Phone: 0800 639 759 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9.00am-6.00pm.

Wednesday from 9.00am-9.00pm.

Weekends and public holidays 9.00am-5.00pm.

STRATFORD i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE Prospero Place and Miranda Street, Stratford Email: info@stratford.govt.nz Phone: 06 765 6708 or 0800 765 6708 Hours: Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.00pm.

Weekends and public holidays 10.00am-3.00pm.

SOUTH TARANAKI i-SITE VISITOR CENTRE 55 High Street, Hawera Email: visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz Phone: 06 278 8599 Hours: Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.00pm.

Weekends and public holidays 10.00am-3.00pm.

All iSITES are closed Christmas day.

TARANAKI’S MUST DO EXPERIENCES There is no shortage of things to see, do, eat and drink in Taranaki, but how do you know which are a ‘Must Do’? You ask the locals! We did just that and got thousands of votes for the things visitors to the region simply must do. This publication lists the favourites. Explore, experience and discover the many fantastic experiences and places Taranaki has to offer, and see why it really is the region like no other.

ART AND ARTS TRAILS

Taranaki is a source of true inspiration for many talented local artists.

The Oakura Arts Trail takes place around November each year but there is a self-guided trail available by arrangement if you wish to visit artist’s workshops and art spaces throughout the year. www.oakuraarts.co.nz The Taranaki Arts Trail goes all the way around the mountain every June. For more about the artists and event updates, visit www.taranakiartstrail.co.nz Percy Thomson Gallery provides an ever-changing programme of exhibitions by local, national and international artists. Where: Miranda St, Stratford When: 10.30am-4pm Mon-Fri, 10.30am-3pm Sat/Sun Contact: 06 765 0917 www.percythomsongallery.org.nz

CLIMB PARITUTU

With 20 fantastic golf courses on offer around the mountain try the scenic Ngamotu Links, Westown or Te Ngutu courses.

Contact: 06 755 1349, www.taranakigolf.co.nz

FISH FOR YOUR SUPPER

There are many great spots around the region to cast a rod. From lakes and rivers to surf casting off the beach, or off the back of a boat – dinner will be well-earned. A couple of our favourites include: Lee Breakwater – Perfect for family fishing, ship-watching and enjoying the views. Where: Ocean View Parade, Port Taranaki. Breaker Bay fishing charters – Head out to sea for some game fishing and bag a big’un.

Where: Ocean View Parade, Port Taranaki. Contact: 027 687 9189

FOR THE KIDS Get a bird’s eye view of New Plymouth and its coastline from the top of this distinctive volcanic outcrop. Sturdy footwear advised. Where: Centennial Drive, New Plymouth

DAWSON FALLS AND WILKIES POOLS

Dawson Falls is a stunning 18 metre high waterfall situated 10 minutes from the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre through lush native forest. A little further up the track, Wilkies Pools is a series of natural plunge pools where you can swim in pristine alpine water. They can be accessed via a 60 minute bush track or via a 20 minute wheel-chair friendly walkway. Where: Dawson Falls Visitor Centre, Manaia Rd, Egmont National Park. Contact: 06 759 0350

DISCOVER THE FORGOTTEN WORLD

New Zealand’s oldest Heritage Trail offers an unparalleled journey through our pioneering past and rich landscape.

There are many points of interest along the 155km trail including the historic Whangamomona Hotel which offer an adventure like no other. To see the Forgotten World Highway from another perspective, book in a rail cart tour with Forgotten World Adventures.

Where: SH43 – between Stratford and Taumaranui via Whangamomona.

Contact: 07 895 7181, www.forgottenworldadventures.co.nz

ELTHAM ARTY LOO

FAVOURITE GOLF COURSES

Taranaki is a fantastic place for kids.

There are dozens of public outdoor playgrounds dotted around the mountain (find out more on the New Plymouth, Stratford and South Taranaki District Council websites) otherwise the Rumpus Room has three play structures catering to different ages, party rooms and a café.

Where: Corner Gill and High Sts, New Plymouth. Contact: 06 757 4090, www.rumpus-room.co.nz

FUN HO! NATIONAL TOY MUSEUM

Fun Ho! Toys hold a special place in our history and have become a sought after classic. Over 3,000 toys are on display.

Where: 25 Rata St, Inglewood.

When: 10am-4pm daily. Contact: 06 756 7030, www.funhotoys.co.nz

GET A STRIKE AT BOWLARAMA

The perfect rainy day activity, Bowlarama features a 16-lane, fully automatic tenpin bowling centre with a glow in the dark indoor mini-putt golf course. Where: 188 Devon St West, New Plymouth. When: 1pm-9.30pm Monday, 10am-9.30pm Tuesday and Wednesday, 10am-10pm Thursday, 10am-10.30pm Friday and Saturday, 10am-9pm Sunday.

Contact: 06 757 8169, www.bowlaramanp.co.nz

Situated in the centre of Eltham, the public toilet is a sight to behold!

Featuring art from a range of local artists, you’ll be glad you stopped.

Where: Corner of King Edward St and State Highway 3, Eltham.

Contact: 06 278 0555

EXPLORE MT TARANAKI AND EGMONT NATIONAL PARK

Discover the legend and landscape of iconic Mt Taranaki and encounter a view like no other. Summit Climb – Reach the 2518m summit. A guided hike is recommended. Pouakai Crossing – The best day hike in the west with stunning forests and open alpine areas.

Pouakai Circuit – An overnight circular hike through lush forest, sub-alpine and alpine vegetation zones.

Where: Egmont National Park. When: Year round – though go prepared for changeable weather conditions.

Contact: 06 756 0990

GOVETT-BREWSTER ART GALLERY/ LEN LYE CENTRE

PIONEER VILLAGE

The esteemed Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre present stunning contemporary art in a spectacular combined new building.

Check the website for information and exhibitions. Where: Cnr of King and Queen Sts, New Plymouth.

Contact: www.govettbrewster.com

HAPPY CHADDY’S CHARTERS

Join colourful captain Chaddy aboard his restored English lifeboat for a cruise through the Sugar Loaf Island Marine Reserve, exploring volcanic remnants and New Zealand’s northernmost fur seal colony. Where: Ocean View Parade, Port Taranaki, New Plymouth. When: 8am-4pm daily (Sept-June). Contact: 06 758 9133, www.chaddyscharters.co.nz

PUKE ARIKI

HAWERA WATER TOWER

Built in 1914, Hawera’s now iconic Water Tower was a defence against fires which had ravaged the town.

These days its 215 steps lead to spectacular views over the town and surrounding district. Where: 55 High St, Hawera. When: 10am-2pm daily.

Contact: 06 278 8599

HELICOPTER FLIGHT OVER MT TARANAKI

Mount Taranaki stands proudly at the heart of Taranaki, both geographically and spiritually. A great way to view the picture-perfect peak is by air.

Who: Beck Helicopters Where: 4512 Mountain Rd, Eltham.

Contact: 06 764 7073, www.heli.co.nz

LAKE MANGAMAHOE

Pack a picnic and take a picturesque forest walk or fun-fuelled mountain bike ride around the Mangamahoe hydro lake. Where: SH3, just south of New Plymouth. When: 7am-6pm (8.30pm Daylight Savings).

Contact: 06 759 6060

MOKAU RIVER JOURNEY

While technically not in Taranaki, trips up the magnificent Mokau River are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Where: Mokau township, SH3 North.

When: Bookings essential Mokau River Cruises, www.mokaurivercruises.co.nz Mokau River Tours, www.mokauriver.co.nz

NEW PLYMOUTH COASTAL WALKWAY

Walk, skate or cycle the international award winning 13km New Plymouth Coastal Walkway, from Port Taranaki in the west, past the Wind Wand to the stunning Te Rewa Rewa Bridge and beyond to Bell Block. Best done with friends and ice-cream! Where: Along New Plymouth’s coastline.

Contact: 06 759 6060

PUKEKURA PARK

SPECIALTY SHOPPING

Uncover Taranaki’s rich heritage at this innovative information and ideas hub, located in the heart of New Plymouth – the world’s first integrated museum, visitor centre and library.

Where: 1 Ariki St, New Plymouth.

When: Weekdays 9am-6pm, Wednesday to 9pm. Weekends and Public Holidays 9am-5pm (library closed public holidays).

Contact: 06 759 6060, www.pukeariki.com

GLORIOUS GARDENS

Taranaki boasts many parks and gardens worthy of celebration. Start with these and see Venture Taranaki’s Parks and Gardens booklet for many more gardens around the region.

Pukeiti – This expansive, internationally renowned rhododendron garden nestled in the foothills of Mt Taranaki offers many picturesque garden walks. Where: 2290 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth. When: Daily 9am-5pm.

Contact: 06 765 7127, www.pukeiti.org.nz Tupare – Sculpted from a hillside overlooking the Waiwhakaiho River, this beautiful garden is on the outskirts of New Plymouth. Where: 487 Mangorei Rd, New Plymouth.

When: 9am-5pm. Contact: www.trc.govt.nz Hollard Gardens – A horticultural oasis in the heart of dairy country, Hollard’s is an intriguing and relaxing destination year round. Where: 1686 Upper Manaia Rd, Kaponga.

When: 9am-5pm. Contact: www.trc.govt.nz

OUR FAVOURITE BEACHES

Round up the family for some beach cricket, swimming, surfing, kite-surfing or stand-up paddle boarding at one of Taranaki’s favourite beaches.

Where: Back Beach, Centennial Drive, New Plymouth; Fitzroy Beach, Beach St, New Plymouth; Oakura Beach, Jans Terrace, Oakura; Opunake Beach, Beach Rd, Opunake; Waitara West Beach, off Centennial Ave, Waitara.

STOCKCAR NIGHT AT STRATFORD

PUKEKURA RACEWAY

Watch horse racing action from the grandstand or the La Mer Lounge at Pukekura Raceway. There are 16 race days a year with each offering a unique experience. Where: Rogan St, New Plymouth. Contact: 06 757 5759, www.taranakiracing.co.nz

RELAX AND TREAT YOURSELF

Book in for some rest and relaxation after an action-packed day in Taranaki.

Silk Spa – An award-winning day spa offering everything from massage to waxing and specialised facial and body treatments. Where: 134 Carrington St, New Plymouth. Contact: 06 769 5570, www.silkspa.co.nz Taranaki Thermal Spa – Uses 29,000 year old mineral water that was discovered in 1909 in an early search for oil. Private pools are filled with hot water on arrival.

Where: 8 Bonithon Ave, New Plymouth.

Contact: 06 759 1666, www.pureone.co.nz

SEE NATIVE FLORA & FAUNA AT LAKE ROTOKARE

A stunning 230 hectare predator free environment rich in native flora and fauna and home to many endangered species including kiwi and the long-tailed bat.

Where: Sangster Rd (12kms east of Eltham) When: All day, every day. Please remember to stop before entering the gates to check your vehicles, bags and boats for pests and predators and leave pets at home.

Contact: 06 764 8500, www.rotokare.org.nz

TAWHITI MUSEUM AND TRADERS AND WHALERS

Sample Taranaki’s heritage through uniquely realistic and engaging displays, including hundreds of lifesize and miniature models, countless artefacts, a working railway and the new ‘Traders & Whalers’ exhibition that has to be experienced to be believed.

Where: 401 Ohangai Rd, Hawera.

When: Normal hours: Fri-Mon 10am4pm. Summer: (26 Dec-end Jan) open every day, 10-4pm. Winter: (June/ July/Aug) 10am-4pm, Sundays only.

Contact: 06 278 6837, www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz

TE REWA REWA BRIDGE

This international award winning bridge across the Waiwhakaiho River is rapidly becoming one of Taranaki’s iconic places and offers a spectacularly framed view of Mount Taranaki.

Where: Via the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway or at the end of Clemow Rd, Fitzroy

Grab a hotdog and chips and watch the action at the Stratford Speedway.

Where: Flint Rd, Stratford.

When: Saturdays, Oct-Apr. Contact: 06 765 5693, www.stratford-speedway.co.nz

THE SEASIDE MARKET

Wander through the inner-city botanical wonderland to discover lakes, a zoo, historic tea house, playground and countless short walks, as well as Fernery and Display Houses and a special Japanese inspired hillside. Where: Pukekura Park, Fillis St, New Plymouth. When: 7.30am7pm and 7.30am-8pm during daylight savings. Contact: 06 759 6060

NORTH EGMONT VISITOR CENTRE

Comprehensive displays tell Egmont National Park’s volcanic, natural and human history. The best place to start your mountain adventure.

Where: Egmont Rd end.

When: 8am-4pm daily (closed Christmas Day) Contact: 06 756 0990

There are many great specialty retail shops in the region where you will find some cool treasures. Try something a bit different and check out: Santa’s Choice Christmas Shop – If you enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit, this place is for you. Open early October to December or by appointment at other times. Where: 63 Egmont Rd, New Plymouth. Contact: 06 755 1934 Eltham vintage shops – Sharpen up your look with a touch of vintage.

Eltham’s many vintage shops stock everything from antique furniture to fine jewellery. Where: Eltham, SH3.

Discover the lifestyles of Taranaki’s pioneering settlers at this recreated village, complete with cottages, businesses and a fascinating hospital museum. A replica train runs on weekends or by arrangement.

Where: SH3, 1km South of Stratford.

When: 10am-4pm daily Contact: 06 765 5399, www.pioneervillage.co.nz

An upbeat beach market where you’ll find a careful selection of art, vintage, homewares, boutique crafts, live music and delicious food. Where: Ngamotu Beach, Oceanview Parade, New Plymouth. When: 9am-3pm, first Sunday of the month. Contact: www. facebook.com/theseasidemarket

WALK THE TE HENUI WALKWAY TO TE KAINGA MARIRE Try walking from the Coastal Walkway and turning off by the East End Reserve to discover the Te Henui Walkway.

Signboards tell interesting historic stories along the route and lead you to Te Kainga Marire, a beautiful privatelyowned garden named one of only a few 6 Star Gardens by the New Zealand Gardens Trust. Where: Te Kainga Marire, 15 Spencer Pl, New Plymouth.

When: 9am-5pm daily from September to April. Contact: 06 758 8693, www.tekaingamarire.co.nz

SURF HIGHWAY 45

Almost every road that heads towards the coastline leads to a pristine uncrowded wave. Epic surf, art studios, historic sites, spectacular scenery and cosy cafés make this road trip a great adventure. If you’re looking for more, make sure you visit one of the last working lighthouses in the country. The Cape Egmont Lighthouse was once at the heart of Taranaki’s land disputes. Where: The 105km coastal road between New Plymouth and Hawera. Cape Egmont Lighthouse is situated at the end of Cape Rd, Pungarehu.

SURFING OR KITE SURFING A TARANAKI WAVE

Taranaki is the home of Kiwi surf. Stop by one of the region’s great surf shops for a board, surf report and a glimpse through Taranaki’s surf history before hitting the waves. Where: Surf Highway 45

SWIM

When you want to make a splash, dip into one of the region’s favourite swimming pools or river swimming holes. Todd Energy Aquatic Centre – 25m indoor, 50m outdoor, wave pool, sauna, spa and hydroslides.

Where: Tisch Avenue, New Plymouth.

Contact: 06 759 6060 Meeting of the Waters – The meeting of the Waiwhakaiho River and Mangamahoe hydro race offers calm swimming spots and turbulent rapids frequented by white-water kayakers.

Where: Waiwhakaiho Rd, SH3 just south of New Plymouth.

Dam Dropping – Experience the thrill of riding down a historic 8m hydro dam on the Waingongoro River with this locally invented adrenaline rush.

Where: Normanby Dam.

TARANAKI CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST MARY’S

Taranaki Cathedral is New Zealand’s oldest stone church; a centre of peace and reconciliation of unique historical and cultural significance. Visitors always welcome.

Where: 37 Vivian St, New Plymouth.

When: 8am-5pm daily (service times vary). Organ recitals: 12.15pm, 3rd Thursday of the month (Feb-Nov).

Contact: 06 758 3111, www.taranakicathedral.org.nz

WHITECLIFFS WALKWAY

Take a scenic journey through open farmland and dramatic coastal forest to experience spectacular sea and mountain views. See our Walkers Guide booklet for more information.

Where: Pukearuhe Rd, North of Urenui When: Keep to low tide – beach access is limited at high tide.

WIND WANDERERS

The perfect eco-friendly outdoor activity for couples, families and friends of all fitness levels. Hire a multi-person pedal bike and cycle the Coastal Walkway, taking in fantastic seaside views. Where: East End Reserve, Nobs Line, New Plymouth When: 9.30am-5pm on weekends and holidays (weather permitting).

Contact: 027 358 1182, info@windwanderers.co.nz

ZOO VISIT

Taranaki has more than its fair share of zoos. Brooklands Zoo – is a free, family focused zoo. Where: Brooklands Drive, New Plymouth. When: 9am-5pm daily (closed Christmas Day). Contact: 06 759 6060, www.newplymouthnz.com Pouakai Zoo – has an extensive range of exotic wildlife. Where: 1306 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth. When: Tues-Sun 10am-4.30pm. Contact: 06 753 3788, www.facebook.com/PouakaiZoo Stoney Oaks Wildlife Park – is a unique wildlife park that adopts a hands-on approach. Where: Cnr Kaimata and Bristol Rds, Inglewood.

When: Opening hours vary.

Contact: 06 756 7624, www.rarebreeds.co.nz/stoneyoaks.html

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.VISIT.TARANAKI.INFO OR YOUR CLOSEST ISITE VISITOR CENTRE