New Plymouth The hub of the Taranaki region, New Plymouth is a bustling city with a carefree beachside attitude and easy friendliness. The city features an eclectic mix of diverse cultures and contemporary styles, supported by a thriving business district and prosperous dairy and oil industries.
MUST-DO EXPERIENCES INCLUDE:
Boasting superb examples of innovative architecture, melded with numerous historical landmarks, this 70,000-strong district is the thriving centre point of Taranaki and has emerged as a place steeped in history with a strong arts and culture presence.
• Discover the striking architecture of the Len Lye Centre, an exceptional home to honour the artist, his collection and archive. Corner Devon St West and Queen Streets.
One of the seaside city’s main attributes is the award-winning Coastal Walkway that spans 12.7km from the Taranaki Port to Bell Block and offers outstanding views of the Tasman. The iconic Wind Wand, a 48-metre-high kinetic sculpture designed by the eminent Len Lye is one of the features of the walkway and informs local residents when the weather is particularly windy. The Te Rewa Rewa Bridge also located on the walkway links New Plymouth with Bell Block and cuts an impressive form against the backdrop of Mt Taranaki. New Plymouth caters to all ages and differing interests, from the outdoor adventurer to the book worm. The city centre has a vast array of shopping options for those eager to embark on some retail therapy. The selection of cafés and restaurants are not only extensive but well spread throughout the city meaning a delightful dinner or light lunch are within easy walking distance. The impressive setting that is New Plymouth means there’s no shortage of outdoor activities for thrill seekers.
• For information about the festival, region and tickets head to our Festival Hub in the courtyard of the White Hart Hotel opposite Len Lye on Queen St. You can grab a coffee and do some retail therapy while mingling with other festival visitors.
• Lose yourself in a story at Poppies Boutique Book Store on King Street. • For some rest & relaxation enjoy a mineral spa at Taranaki Mineral Pools. Ph 06 759 1666 or take a stroll along the dramatic Back Beach which sits near the Sugar Loaf Islands on Centennial Drive. • After a day of garden visits, book a table at the Social Kitchen, a comfortable bistro in stylish surrounds. 40 Powderham St. Ph 06 757 2711. • Seaside coffee, fine café food prepared by French chefs, bean bags, tables and quirky games can be found at Paris Plage, East End Reserve.
New Plymouth has hosted the ASP Women’s World Surfing Tour and hosts the internationally acclaimed WOMAD festival on an annual basis. Debonair yet down-to-earth, the New Plymouth district houses a friendly population of people passionate about their region and eager to share their slice of paradise with visitors from New Zealand and abroad!
IMAGE: PIP GUTHRIE
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