When I told one of my Kiwi relatives that I’d recently returned from a road trip to New Plymouth, he looked at me as though I belonged in an insane asylum. I’ve noticed many New Zealanders tend to have a similar reaction, as though New Plymouth is a blight on their otherwise pristine, Tolkien-esque landscape. Yet New Plymouth is smack bang in a region that Lonely Planet dubbed the #2 region to visit in the world for 2017. It’s an artistic, quirky town dominated by a spectacular volcano and surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery.

It’s a dreadful shame it’s so underrated, as my time in the ‘Naki has become one of the absolute highlights of my New Zealand adventures to date, a list that includes the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Mt. Aspiring National Park, Lake Taupo, Rotorua, Milford Sound, Franz Josef glacier and Queenstown.

So I thought I’d compile a list of reasons why you should visit New Plymouth and the surrounding region.

1. MT. TARANAKI

Mt. Taranaki is a beast of a mountain, its snow-capped peak soaring dramatically upwards from the surrounding landscape. The peak is often shrouded in cloud, but witness it on a clear day and it’s a majestic sight indeed.

Appreciate the volcano from a distance or attack it on the Summit Track (around half an hour’s drive from New Plymouth, approx. 7-10 hours return). It’s a steep, tough climb, but the views of the Tasman Sea, the countryside beneath and Mt. Ruapehu to the distant East, make it undeniably worthwhile.

2. BEAUTIFUL COASTAL SCENERY

Before visiting the region, I was under the impression that Mt. Taranaki was the only natural landmark in the area worth glimpsing. However, driving in to New Plymouth from Auckland along state highway 3, there are some pretty spectacular coastal views.

I was blown away by the gorgeous scenery along the North Taranaki Bight. Make sure you pull over to get some beautiful shots of rugged white cliffs, crystal blue waters and emerald fields.

3. LITTLE GLUTTON

This funky eatery reminds me a lot of Happy Boy in Royal Oak, Auckland. Decorated in fluoro colours, with friendly staff and upbeat music in the background, this quirky place on the main street of New Plymouth serves up some delectable delights. Try the pork belly and kimchi burger and the watermelon margaritas.

4. FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Wacky art isn’t for everyone, but most people will find something to their taste at the Festival of Lights, held at the beautiful Pukekura Park on the outskirts of the city between December and February. It seems as though the whole city comes out in force to celebrate all things luminescent. Entry is free, and visitors can dance beneath shiny disco balls, gaze at illuminated waterfalls, go for magical boat rides and walk across colourful bridges.

5. TE REWA REWA BRIDGE

The award-winning Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is supposedly both a breaking wave and a whale skeleton, though you’d be forgiven for thinking it was something else entirely when you’re up close.

Constructed in 2010, the bridge, for both cyclists and pedestrians, now forms part of the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. It’s become an icon of the region and is worth a visit, if only for the stunning photos you’ll get looking back towards Mt. Taranaki. There’s a free camping ground by the Waiwhakaiho River a short walk from the bridge if you fancy staying the night.

6. NEW PLYMOUTH COASTAL WALKWAY

The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway stretches from Pioneer Park all the way to Bell Block Beach. The 12.7km path give walkers, cyclists and the trendier roller bladers among us epic views along the North Island’s west coast.

There are several attractions along the way, including the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge. Closer to the Bell Block Beach end of the walkway are gorgeous pastoral landscapes. And, of course, the ever-present Mt. Taranaki looms in the background.

7. LEN LYE GALLERY

New Plymouth is surrounded by some spectacular natural scenery, but city itself is a fascinating cultural and artistic hub. No visit is complete without popping into the Len Lye Gallery and the adjoining Govett-Brewster Gallery.

If you’re into experimental art, or even just cool buildings, definitely pay this a visit. Admission is free, and you’ll get a glimpse into the fascinating world of New Zealand artist Len Lye, whose sculptures, paintings, photographs and films are on display here. Grab a bite to eat and recharge your laptop or phone at Monica’s Eatery next door.

I hope I’ve managed to convince you that New Plymouth is a beautiful and fascinating destination! Got any sights or activities to add to the list? Let me know in the comments below. 

Clarissa Hirst    

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