Taranaki was named one of the best regions to visit in the world in 2017 by Lonely Planet, and with good reason. Our family has done a few road trips and this one is always reflected on so fondly – and often - in those ‘remember that time?’ chats; it was a highlight for us all. If you’re thinking about a trip to this part of the country, a great way to do it (unless you’re in close driving distance) is to fly into New Plymouth, hire a car and head on a ‘round the mountain’ itinerary.
New Plymouth
Whether it’s at the start or end of your trip, you need to spend at least a couple of days in New Plymouth itself. Families will love the – literally - unmissable Len Lye Centre (it’s a feat of design and engineering, and teens will definitely want a selfie in front of its incredible reflective facade before going into the gallery). Puke Ariki Museum is always a hit - kids will find endless hands-on fun activities; Chaddy’s Charters is great for seagoing adventures (including seal spotting) and Dad jokes, and there are so many amazing - and family friendly - places to eat including several clustered in the West End precinct alone. The TSB Festival of Lights is pure joy for all the family and active types will delight in cycling the Coastal Walkway Trail which hugs the rugged coastline from the city to farmland and beyond. If you’re less active, a meandering stroll from the wind wand down the beginning part of this walk is gorgeous too.
Mount Taranaki
A thirty minute drive from New Plymouth will take you to Stratford - a great place to base yourself to explore iconic Mount Taranaki. Head 25 minutes into Egmont National Park to walk tracks that encompass the stunning Dawson’s Falls and Wilkies Pools. After a night in Stratford, get up early and head to Hawera, home of Tawhiti Museum. You’re going to need some time to get around this one.
Hawera
Tawhiti Museum is a place every New Zealand family should visit. It was founded in 1975 by Nigel Ogle, a history lover, who went on to create hundreds of miniature scenes by hand, all based around the history of the area. The detail is mesmerising, and there are also life sized exhibits that bring our past to life in a way kids will love; there’s plenty to get their hands on and play with. Traders and Whalers is the newer section of the museum where you board a little boat illuminated only by the twinkling of lanterns and candles and drift through the dramas of part of our colonial history. Kids will also love the impressive collection of vintage farm machinery and the gorgeous Mr Badgers Cafe based around The Wind in the Willows.
Surf Highway 45
After all that activity. Children will be happy to sit in the car as you drive the beautiful Surf Highway 45. Depending on the time you have, spend a night in Opunake or Oakura for a coastal break with magnificent surf and lovely walks (the Opunake Walkway takes 2.5 hours) or just enjoy the 90 minute coastal drive and head straight back into New Plymouth.
This is only part of the fun to be had in this magical region, perfect for family adventures. Curious about renting a car but not sure how much it will cost? You might be surprised - just make a search for New Plymouth today and discover the range of vehicles available.
Images courtesy of Tourism New Zealand.
