If you ask most Aussies about their New Zealand adventures, you’ll usually hear about Queenstown’s slopes or the sights of Auckland. But for those willing to look a little further left—specifically, to the wild west coast of the North Island—there is a region that remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
Welcome to Taranaki. It’s a place where you can quite literally snowboard and surf in the same day, a region defined by the dramatic contrast of “Maunga to Moana” (mountain to sea). It is rugged, creative, and blissfully uncrowded. And thanks to new flight routes, it has never been easier to get to Taranaki.
The Road Less Travelled
Getting here is part of the adventure. For Gold Coasters, Jetstar has launched a direct service to Hamilton. From there, it’s a stunning three-hour drive south along the “Waikato to Taranaki Way”.
This isn’t just a commute; it’s a scenic touring route designed to get you out of the car. Before you even hit the Taranaki heartland, you can stop at the Mt Damper Falls or witness the geological wonder of the Three Sisters at Tongapōrutu—massive rock formations standing proud against the Tasman Sea.
Meeting Taranaki Maunga
As you drive south, one presence dominates the horizon: Taranaki Maunga. Standing at 2,518m, this symmetrical volcanic cone is the heart of the region. But to the locals, it is much more than a mountain. Taranaki Maunga has been granted legal personhood, recognised as a tūpuna (ancestor) by the eight local iwi (tribes). This legal status—Te Kāhui Tupua—acknowledges the mountain as a living entity, ensuring its protection and guardianship for future generations.
For hikers, the maunga offers a paradise of over 200km of trails within Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki National Park. If you’re chasing that one iconic travel shot to make your friends back home jealous, you’ll want to head for the Pouākai Crossing. It’s a 19km day hike that takes you past the Pouākai Tarn. On a still day, this alpine pool acts as a perfect mirror, creating a reflection of the mountain that is nothing short of magic.
If you prefer a shorter walk with high reward, the Manganui Gorge Track is a brilliant option. It features a new suspension bridge that opened in May 2024, hanging nearly 50 metres above the gorge floor. For something that feels like stepping into a fantasy novel, take the easy stroll to Wilkies Pools. Here, you walk through a “Goblin Forest” of twisted trees draped in moss before reaching volcanic rock pools formed by centuries of water flow.
Chasing Waves on Surf Highway 45
Once you’ve had your fill of alpine air, it’s time to hit the coast. Taranaki’s coastline is traced by the legendary Surf Highway 45, a 105km route connecting New Plymouth in the north to Hāwera in the south.
The highway is named for the dozens of world-class surf breaks that sit just off the road. Whether you are a seasoned pro looking for “six foot and glassy” conditions or a complete beginner, there is a wave here for you. Iconic spots like Stent Road, the Kumara Patch, and Arawhata Road are local legends, while sheltered beaches at Ōakura and Ōpunake offer safe swimming and surf lifesaving patrols during summer,.
But you don’t have to be a surfer to love this drive. The route is peppered with historic sites, shipwrecks like the SS Gairloch, and vibrant coastal villages,. It’s about grabbing a coffee in a small town, watching the swell roll in, and feeling that distinct, laid-back west coast rhythm.
Art, Culture, and Style
The hub of the region is New Plymouth, a city that punches well above its weight culturally. The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre is a must-visit. You can’t miss it—the building’s exterior is a shimmering, curved mirror of stainless steel that reflects the city around it,. Inside, you’ll find kinetic art and contemporary exhibitions that challenge and inspire.
The city’s hospitality scene is equally vibrant, particularly around the West End Precinct. You can sample local drops at the Juno Gin Distillery or the Fenton Street Arts Collective. The dining here is top-tier, offering everything from artisanal baking to decadent dinners with views of the west coast sunset.
Stay Somewhere Different
When it’s time to rest, Taranaki offers accommodation that is an experience in itself. If you want to stay in the thick of it, The State Hotel in central New Plymouth pairs boutique design with heritage character. Just nearby, the King and Queen Hotel Suites offer art-filled luxury.
For those who want to wake up to the sound of the ocean, head out to the coast. Ahu Ahu Beach Villas offer rustic luxury with views overlooking the sea—perfect for watching the sun dip below the horizon after a day of exploring.
Taranaki is often described as “like no other,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s a place where you can explore a goblin forest in the morning, visit an international art gallery by midday, and watch the surf roll in over black sand beaches by sunset.
It is untouched, authentic, and waiting for you. So, when you’re planning your next trans-Tasman escape, look west. Drive the Surf Highway, meet the Maunga, and discover the New Zealand you haven’t seen yet.
Start Planning Your Taranaki Adventure www.taranaki.co.nz
Over the next month, we’ll be sharing our favourite spots, hidden gems, and must-visit places across Taranaki. Follow along on our socials and check back here for the full guide
