Head to ‘The Naki’ - halfway between Auckland and Wellington - for rugged, wild coastlines and the volcanic Mount Taranaki (Taranaki Maunga). Take the epic Surf Highway 45 for an awesome roadie from New Plymouth to Hawera.
- If you’re into surfing, pack your winter wetsuit and hit one of the 12 world-class surf breaks such as Fitzroy Beach.
- In the mood to explore? Head to the centre of Egmont National Park to hike through rimu and kamahi trees up to the summit of 120,000 year old Mount Taranaki
- Hit up vibrant Oakura for delicious cafes and see the world's biggest surfboard outside Butlers Reef Hotel
- A visit to New Plymouth is a must for excellent food and a vibrant art scene. The Len Lye Centre’s unmissable reflective facade leads to a world of wonder inside.
- Climb up Paritutu Rock at Back Beach at sunrise and captivate yourself with the incredible 360 degree views from New Plymouth city to Mt Taranaki, the seven Sugar Loaf Islands, Taranaki port, Ngamotu Beach, and beyond. See if you can even spot the North Island’s Central mountains - Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe in the distance.
- Get some fresh air at the Taranaki Cycle Park, which includes an epic junior mini road circuit for kids
Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand