Tremendous Taranaki

NUZZLING INTO NEW ZEALAND’S WEST COAST, TARANAKI’S REMOTENESS LENDS ITSELF TO MOMENTS OF BEAUTIFUL SECLUSION.

For a long time, arriving here was commonly regarded as the result of a wrong turn. Then, in 2017, Lonely Planet spectacularly lifted the lid and exposed ‘The Naki’ as the destination it really is: one of New Zealand’s very finest.

Mt Taranaki quite clearly popped out of Mother Nature’s ‘flawless mountain’ mould, such is its aesthetic perfection; always sitting spectacularly, and somewhat reassuringly, on the horizon. While climbing its peak is the forte of hardened hikers, the Pouakai Circuit follows a 2-3 day route around the mountain’s base. Those starved of time should try the one-day Pouakai Crossing traversing low slopes and moss swamps, or the 13km New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. For views of Mt Taranaki from afar, climbing the 215 steps up Hāwera’s water tower will provide some of the best.

Tongapōrutu, Taranaki © Rach Stewart/Venture Taranaki

Highway 45, dubbed Surf Highway 45, traces the wild coastline between New Plymouth and Hāwera, with legendary surf breaks the entire way. World-class swells at both the Kumera Patch and Stent Rd are lapped by blacksand beaches, whipped by the Tasman Sea and littered with driftwood.

From jaw-dropping scenery to a surprising art scene, New Plymouth is home to the WOMAD international arts festival, while sculptures such as the Wind Wand define the region. Designed by internationally-acclaimed New Zealand artist Len Lye, the visionary also has his pieces on show at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre. From untamed landscapes to liberated creativity, whatever your reason for visiting Taranaki, this is one ‘wrong turn’ you’ll want to make time and time again.

TOWNS IN & AROUND North Taranaki

NORTH TARANAKI IS AN ENTICING MIX OF BEACHES, GOLF COURSES, ART AND CRAFTS, GARDENS, WALKS, AND SITES OF HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE FROM MĀORI AND EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT.

Awakino

The coastal retreat of Awakino is the perfect place to relax with beautiful west coast beaches on tap. The mouth of the Awakino River provides some excellent breaks for surfers and the river itself is prized by anglers. Go hunting, tramping, eat some whitebait and head to the local pub to share tales from your day.

Mōkau

Whitebaiting and fishing are popular in Mōkau and many visitors arrive to either kayak or cruise the Mōkau River. The bush along the riverbank retains much of its original splendour.

Urenui

In a quiet corner of Taranaki is the coastal settlement Urenui, complete with a scenic marine reserve and a strong Māori connection, including the Urenui Marae where iwi events still take place. Walk along the black sands of Wai-iti Beach which is framed by dramatic white cliffs and turquoise water. These cliffs are also part of the Whitecliffs Walkway, along with the Three Sisters rock formations and the historic Te Horo stock tunnel. Please note, this walkway is closed during lambing season from 1 July to 30 September.

Waitara

Waitara is the site of an original Māori settlement. Look out for the Manukorihi Pā and the magnificent carved meeting house completed in 1936. One of the best points of interest includes the Te Roimata O Te Atiawa stone commemorating the iwi chief at the time of the first Taranaki War in 1860.

Northern Taranaki coastline © Venture Taranaki

Main Image: Taranaki © Rob Tucker