Pukekura Park
This inner-city park is home to scenic lakes, a zoo, a children's playground and decorative gardens. Make sure you stop by their historic tea-house for lunch while you're there. The cricket ground at the park attracts thousands of visitors every year, with several domestic games played each summer. If cricket isn't your thing, you can opt to hire one of the row boats and take a leisurely paddle on Pukekura Park's lake.
Summer concerts at the TSB Bowl of Brooklands
New Plymouth hosts a number of events throughout the year including concerts, festivals and shows in the TSB Bowl, their natural outdoor amphitheatre. TSB Bank Festival of Lights During December, you can see New Plymouth's Pukekura Park transformed after dark with an incredible display of lights, electric events and lighting displays.
Mt Taranaki
This famous landmark is a must-see while you're in Taranaki. Climb to the summit with a team of people or experienced local guide to experience the incredible views and New Zealand landscape. For those who are a little unsure about climbing as far as the summit, there are a number of treks, climbing and adventure activities that still offer a fantastic day out while taking in the magnificent scenery.
Lake Mangamahoe
If the weather is fine, this scenic hydro lake is the ideal location for a picnic, bush walk or mountain bike ride. The lake is located 10 minutes south of New Plymouth city, towards Inglewood, on SH3.
Pouakai Zoo
See Lions, White Royal Bengal Tigers, Meerkats and Spider Monkeys and more at this family-friendly attraction.
Surf Taranaki
Taranaki is home to a number of world famous surf beaches - almost any stop along the coast will offer excellent surfing opportunities. Top surfing spots include Fitzroy Beach, East End, Back Beach, Oakura Beach, The Kumara Patch, Stent Rd, Kina Rd and Opunake Beach.
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
This contemporary art gallery features a range of works from the past 40 years, as well as regular events and exhibitions. Visit their website www.govettbrewster.com for more information.
Todd Energy Aquatic Centre
New Plymouth's main aquatic complex offers a wave pool, sauna, spa, hydroslide, café and gym. The complex has indoor and outdoor swimming facilities and is adjacent to the Coastal Walkway.
The Coastal Walkway
One of the highlights in New Plymouth is the Coastal Walkway. This path stretches 11km from Port Taranaki to Hickford Park in Bell Block, north of the city. Ideal for running, walking, skating and cycling, there are a number of stops to enjoy along the way including Puke Ariki and New Plymouth's wind wand, East End Playground, and Te Rewa Rewa Bridge.
The Meeting of the Waters
Discover calm swimming spots, turbulent rapids and bush walks at the meeting of the Waiwhakaiho River and Mangamahoe Hydro Lake.
Cape Egmont Lighthouse
This lighthouse was first installed on Wellington's Mana Island in 1865 and shipped to Cape Egmont, Pungarehu in 1881. As one of New Zealand's last working lighthouses, it's a truly historical experience. A replica (but non-functioning) lighthouse has also been built 5km away at the Cape Egmont Boat Club.
Mt Damper Falls
Hidden inside the Moki Forest, 74 metre high Mt Damper Falls are not far from the Forgotten World Highway. Take a drive up that way to see this magnificent natural wonder.
Taranaki Farmer's Market
Browse the fresh produce, sample local foods and enjoy the vibrant market setting at Taranaki's famous Farmer's Market. There's plenty more to see and do in Taranaki if you have the time - just visit their official website, visit.taranaki.info to find out more about their top local attractions.
