Things to do in Taranaki
A Guide by RaD Car Hire
At RaD Car Hire, we’re all about the journey and making sure our customers get the best possible experience during their time here in New Zealand. Whether you’re a local exploring a new area or you’re visiting from overseas, who wouldn’t benefit from a little insider information, right?
With branches in 22 locations around New Zealand, our team of staff are all passionate about their own “home” towns. Whether they’re born and bred or new to the area, our team are your local guides when it comes to exploring new destinations throughout the country. We also like to lean on our wonderful customers to find out what they have loved about New Zealand so we can add their top tips to all our travel guides.
In this guide, we are going to be taking you on a journey through the wonderful Taranaki region where you will find RaD branches in both New Plymouth and Stratford. Taranaki shot to global fame when it was named as one of the Lonely Planet’s best regions to visit in the world back in 2017. Whilst locals have long regarded “the Naki” as one of our hidden gems, it was recognition of the region’s beautiful walking tracks, stunning architecture and of course, the stunning backdrop provided by Mt Taranaki which sits as an ever-present snow-capped colossus.
New Plymouth is also home to one of New Zealand’s most vibrant art scenes and the city plays host to a number of music festivals and events throughout the year including Womad. The Pouakai Crossing – a fresh alternative to the much famed Tongariro Crossing is largely regarded as one of New Zealand’s best one-day walks and attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the country and from overseas to the region.
As one of New Zealand’s best-known car rental companies, we’ve got some great deals available for people visiting the Taranaki region with branches in New Plymouth and Stratford so make sure you check out our latest deals and great prices.
Taranaki Activities
Whilst Taranaki may have been a hidden gem for tourists in the past, it is now one of New Zealand’s tourism hot spots and a destination many visitors are choosing to add to their itinerary. Whilst other guides will tell you about the amazing activities in the region such as the Len Lye Centre, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery or the Egmont National Park, we want to give you more of a locals insight into the best activities in the region. Whilst there is no doubt that you should climb Mt Taranaki if you get the chance, or visit one of the art galleries, you should also give some lesser-known activities a try.
Here are seven activities you might not have heard of in Taranaki:
Hike the Pouākai Crossing
OK, so we might not be able to provide you with all the hidden gems but ask any local, and this would be high on their list of things to do in the region and is widely regarded as one of New Zealand's best one-day walks, offering stunning views of Taranaki Maunga and Mt Ruapehu. The track takes you through untouched landscapes, including lush native forests and lava cliffs. Many of the team based down in Taranaki have done this walk and can attest that it’s pretty special. Your camera will never be too far away with stunning views at every turn.
Visit Pukekura Park
This is another destination that makes it into a few guides but is another favourite with locals so it is difficult to leave it off our list. Known for its serene lakes, picturesque red bridge, and diverse botanical displays, Pukekura Park is a must-visit. It also hosts the TSB Festival of Lights, a spectacular summer event. Widely regarded as New Plymouth’s pride and joy, the park is a great place to relax and unwind in the heart of the city. Grab a picnic and enjoy the peace and tranquillity.
Explore the Taranaki Pioneer Village
Located near Stratford, this village offers a nostalgic journey through time with its collection of historical buildings and artefacts. It's a great place to learn about Taranaki's pioneering past. Our team in Stratford say that this is a favourite with lots of customers who pick up and drop off their rental car at the branch, praising the village’s step back in time and providing a sense of what life was like back in the 1850s to 1950s in Taranaki.
Take a stroll along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
This must have been one of the best additions to the Taranaki region and is something that can be enjoyed by everyone young and old. This scenic walkway combines natural landscapes with urban touches, featuring coastal and mountain views along with artistic sculptures. It's perfect for walking or biking. The walkway now stretches a total of 13.2km and is constantly evolving, connecting Pioneer Park at Port Taranaki to Bell Block Beach. It’s a great way to start or end your day, taking a relaxing stroll along the walkway.
Experience the Tawhiti Museum
Situated in Hāwera, this museum is renowned for its life-size displays and scale models that bring Taranaki's history to life. The Traders and Whalers experience is particularly recommended. This private museum is widely regarded as one of the best in the country and is another jewel in Taranaki’s crown. It’s well worth a drive out if you are based in New Plymouth or Stratford and it’s a great chance to give your rental car a run out.
Rotokare Scenic Reserve
A 230-hectare predator-free sanctuary near Stratford, featuring a stunning natural lake, wetlands, and lush native bush. The reserve is home to rare birds, including kiwi and hihi, and offers walking tracks, birdwatching, and picnic spots. Its unique predator-proof fence has allowed native wildlife to flourish, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Te Popo Gardens
Located 15 minutes from Stratford, Te Popo Gardens is Taranaki’s largest privately owned woodland garden, set across 34 acres. Visitors can wander through exotic and native plantings, cross a 30-metre suspension bridge, and enjoy tranquil picnic spots. The gardens are known for their birdlife, seasonal displays, glow worms, and peaceful atmosphere, making them a highlight for garden lovers and anyone seeking a serene escape.
Taranaki Places to Eat
It might come as no surprise to find out that New Plymouth is home to some of the regions most popular places to eat out as the largest city in the region, however, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t also look further afield. Whether you are looking for a high-end place to eat or you are looking for some cheap eats, you should find somewhere to tickle your tastebuds in the recommendations below.
Here are eight of the best places to eat in Taranaki to suit all budgets:
Social Kitchen
· Cuisine: European, New Zealand
· Budget: Moderate to High ($$ - $$$)
· Highlights: Located in New Plymouth, Social Kitchen offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for sharing meals. The menu features crowd-pleasing dishes with a focus on meaty offerings but also includes excellent vegetarian options like blue cheese gnocchi and eggplant parmigiana. Their firecracker chicken and house-made gnocchi with blue cheese and black pepper are particularly popular. The restaurant's unique setting in a former Salvation Army citadel adds to its charm, making it an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience.
Monica's Eatery
· Cuisine: Cafe, European
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Highlights: Inspired by Monica Brewster, the founding benefactor of the adjacent Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, Monica's Eatery offers a fresh and generous menu for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The restaurant is known for its fluffy omelettes and artistic presentation. Its location next to the art gallery makes it a perfect spot for culture enthusiasts to refuel during their visit to New Plymouth. The cafe's commitment to quality and creativity in its dishes reflects the artistic spirit of its namesake.
Shining Peak Brewing
· Cuisine: Brew Pub, New Zealand
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Highlights: This award-winning brewery in New Plymouth not only offers an incredible array of small-batch beers but also features creative kitchen dishes by executive chef Freddie Ponder. The smoked eel toastie is a standout item, and visitors shouldn't leave without trying the unique house-made beer ice cream. Shining Peak Brewing provides a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for those looking to enjoy craft beers paired with innovative New Zealand cuisine.
India Today Tandoor and Bistro
· Cuisine: Indian
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Highlights: For those craving Indian flavours in Taranaki, India Today Tandoor and Bistro is a top choice. Located in New Plymouth, this restaurant offers a comprehensive menu of authentic Indian dishes. Patrons particularly enjoy their chicken korma, beef rendang, and naan bread. The restaurant provides a taste of India in the heart of Taranaki, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike for its flavourful curries and friendly service.
Toret Cucina Italiana
· Cuisine: Italian
· Budget: High ($$$)
· Highlights: Situated just 17 minutes from New Plymouth in Ōākura, Toret Cucina Italiana offers an authentic Italian fine dining experience. The restaurant is known for its three or four-course degustation menu with optional wine pairings. Standout dishes include the gorgonzola mousse starter with honey and walnuts, homemade gnocchi, and goat's cheese tortellini with burnt butter, sage, and hazelnut. For dessert, they offer classic Italian treats like tiramisu and panna cotta. Toret Cucina Italiana is the perfect choice for a special occasion or a luxurious Italian feast in Taranaki.
The Burnt Place Bar & Kitchen
· Cuisine: New Zealand, Shared Plates
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Highlights: Located in Hāwera, The Burnt Place offers an upmarket bar experience with a focus on exceptional shared dining. The menu features small and large plates designed to be shared, making it ideal for gatherings. The restaurant is known for its great cocktails, eclectic atmosphere, and top-notch service. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely meal or a quick bite, with an extensive drinks menu available.
Ourr Place – Stratford
· Cuisine: Pizza, Small Plates, New Zealand
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Highlights: Cool and stylish, Ourr Place offers a relaxed atmosphere with booth seating and funky decor. The seasonal menu features a wide range of snacks and platters perfect for sharing, along with hearty Kiwi mains like steak and lamb shank. Their pizzas are a standout, with gluten-free bases available, and the dessert menu is hard to resist. Ourr Place is a local favourite for lunch, dinner, or cocktails with friends, known for its friendly service and casual vibe.
Ngati Ruanui Stratford Mountain House
· Cuisine: Contemporary New Zealand, Café, Fine Dining
· Budget: Moderate to High ($$–$$$)
· Highlights: Nestled high on Maunga Taranaki, this award-winning restaurant and café is celebrated for its dramatic alpine setting and warm hospitality. The menu features contemporary and classic cuisine made with local produce, from hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners. Guests can dine fireside or on the terrace, soaking up mountain views and native birdlife. All diets are catered for, and the restaurant is ideal for everything from romantic dinners to group celebrations. Profits support the local Ngāti Ruanui community, adding a meaningful touch to every meal.
Taranaki Accommodation
Similar to the recommended places to eat, New Plymouth tends to be the central hub for the majority of travellers heading to the Taranaki region and for good reason. Here you will find the widest choice of accommodation options, from upmarket hotels to budget motels and everything in between. Airbnbs are also a good option throughout the region, however, we have focused on accommodation options that tend to have availability year-round.
Here are eight accommodation recommendations in the Taranaki region:
King and Queen Hotel Suites
· Budget: Luxury ($$$)
· Features: Located in the heart of New Plymouth, this boutique hotel offers minimalist rooms and chic suites with plush European interiors. Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and access to nearby fitness facilities. Its proximity to the Len Lye Gallery, restaurants, and the coastal walkway makes it ideal for those seeking a luxurious stay with cultural and dining experiences.
One Burgess Hill
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Features: Just a short drive from New Plymouth, this tranquil accommodation offers modern studios and apartments, some featuring whirlpool tubs and stunning river views. Guests appreciate its peaceful location surrounded by nature while still being close to the city centre. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxing retreat with modern amenities.
Opunake Beach Holiday Park
· Budget: Budget-friendly ($)
· Features: Situated in Ōpunake, this holiday park is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers cabins, campsites, and RV parking with access to hiking trails, a children’s playground, and a beautiful beach. The free parking and laid-back atmosphere make it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers exploring the coastal region.
Tairoa Lodge
· Budget: Moderate to High ($$ - $$$)
· Features: Located in Hāwera, this historic lodge offers elegant rooms with lush gardens and an outdoor pool. It’s popular for events like weddings but also caters to travellers seeking a charming countryside escape. Tairoa Lodge combines heritage charm with modern comforts.
Amity Court Motel - Stratford
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Features: Situated in Stratford, this family-run motel offers spacious self-contained units with kitchenettes, satellite TV, and stunning views of Mt Taranaki. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, secure parking, BBQ facilities, and a picnic area. The motel provides a range of room types, including studios and two-bedroom apartments, making it suitable for families and travellers seeking comfort and convenience in a central location.
Platinum Lodge, Stratford
· Budget: Luxury ($$$)
· Features: Nestled beneath Mt Taranaki and surrounded by native bush, Platinum Lodge offers boutique, adults-only accommodation just five minutes from Stratford. The lodge features luxury studios perfect for couples, as well as an owner’s lodge for up to eight guests. Highlights include a tranquil setting, mountain views, a swimming pool, and an on-site spa offering a range of treatments. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, gourmet breakfasts, and preferential spa bookings. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking privacy, relaxation, and a touch of indulgence in the heart of Taranaki.
Ngati Ruanui Stratford Mountain House
· Budget: Moderate to High ($$–$$$)
· Features: Located on the slopes of Mt Taranaki in Egmont National Park, this alpine lodge offers elegant rooms-some with spa baths and mountain views-alongside an award-winning restaurant and mountain café. Guests can enjoy easy access to native forest walks, the Goblin Forest, and Dawson Falls. The Mountain House is renowned for its warm hospitality, cultural connection to Ngāti Ruanui, and its commitment to supporting local community wellbeing. It’s a unique base for exploring the maunga and soaking up Taranaki’s natural beauty.
Te Popo Gardens & Accommodation
· Budget: Moderate ($$)
· Features: Set within Taranaki’s largest privately owned garden, just 15 minutes from Stratford, Te Popo offers boutique bed & breakfast accommodation surrounded by 34 acres of woodland, gardens, waterfalls, and birdlife. Guests enjoy peaceful rooms, hearty breakfasts, and access to woodland walks, a 30-metre suspension bridge, and glow worms at night. With no mobile reception but free Wi-Fi, it’s a true escape into nature-perfect for garden lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking tranquillity and rural charm.
Best Sights in Taranaki
With so many things to see and do in the Taranaki region, we wanted to go beyond our top five recommendations for activities in the region and also give you some great tips on some of the best sights to see. These aren’t activities as such but they are things that should be on your bucket list in terms of what to see and do in the region.
Here are some of our favourite sights to see in Taranaki:
Mt Taranaki
This one is pretty impossible to miss and is perhaps the defining feature of the Taranaki region. Mt Taranaki is a majestic volcanic peak offering breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. The walk to the top is well worth it but wear sturdy boots and beware of the scree section which can be painfully slow as you take one step forward to slide two steps back! The mountain is steeped in cultural significance and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in Māori heritage.
Cape Egmont Lighthouse
New Zealand is not short on spectacular lighthouses, however, the one at Cape Egmont is right up there with the best. Located on the rugged west coast of Taranaki, this historic lighthouse provides stunning views of the coastline and is a great spot for photography. It's a picturesque stop for those exploring the region's scenic drives and beaches.
Len Lye Wind Wand
This is perhaps one of the more unusual sights to see on the list, however, if you are in New Plymouth, it’s another you can’t really miss. The Wind Wand is a striking kinetic sculpture in New Plymouth, designed by renowned artist Len Lye. It’s a 48-metre-tall red fibreglass tube that sways in the wind, creating a mesmerizing display. At night, it lights up, adding to its visual appeal as a symbol of the city. You might not think it sounds that impressive but wait until you stand beneath it – it will captivate you, especially on a windy day!
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge
This striking white bridge in New Plymouth is a popular spot for photography, especially with Mt Taranaki in the background. It's part of the scenic Coastal Walkway, offering beautiful views of the Tasman Sea and surrounding landscape. It’s often a turnaround spot for those walking out on the Coastal Walkway from New Plymouth and marks a great spot to head back to the city, with spectacular views towards Fitzroy Beach.
Stratford Clock Tower
A charming Elizabethan-style clock tower in Stratford, known for its Shakespearean theme. The tower features a glockenspiel that performs scenes from Romeo and Juliet four times a day, making it a unique and entertaining attraction for visitors. This is another of Taranaki’s quirky and charming attractions and Stratford is a lovely little town to visit and spend a couple of hours.
Hawera Water Tower
You might think we are a little crazy recommending water towers as things to go and see but this is no ordinary water tower. The Hawera water tower is historic and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. It's a great spot for those interested in local history and architecture. Hawera is a great place for a day out, especially if you are based in New Plymouth and the water tower is just one of the town’s many charms.
Elephant Rock
Now this one is pretty cool. Located near Tongaporutu, this natural rock formation resembles an elephant and is a popular stop for photographers and nature lovers. It's accessible at low tide and offers stunning coastal views.
Fitzroy Beach
A list of sights to see on this stunning coastline wouldn’t be complete without at least one beach recommendation. Fitzroy is a picturesque black-sand beach in New Plymouth, known for its consistent surf and family-friendly atmosphere. The beach connects to the Coastal Walkway, offering scenic views and easy access to local amenities. It's a perfect spot for surfers, swimmers, and those looking to relax by the sea.
Renting a Car in Taranaki
If you looking to rent a car in the Taranaki region, look no further than RaD Car Hire. With two locations – one in New Plymouth and one in Stratford, we’ve got you covered in the Naki. With super competitive prices, a great selection of cars from compact to 4x4, and a promise of great customer service, then RaD is a great choice for all travellers.
For those already located in the Taranaki region looking for a rental car to take them on an exciting adventure somewhere on the North Island, make sure you check out our cheap car rental deals from either our New Plymouth or Stratford branches.