There are plenty of attractions in New Plymouth, New Zealand when it comes to things to do. We’ve selected our top 9 activities in New Plymouth, but if you think we missed any must-see or fun things to do in New Plymouth, please let us know.
1. What New Plymouth, New Zealand, is famous for?
A bustling and modern city, New Plymouth is renowned for its sunny weather, art galleries, scenic parks, opulent restaurants, and family-friendly activities.
2. Is a trip to New Plymouth worthwhile?
One of the nicest stretches of New Plymouth’s beautiful coastline may be seen at Fitzroy Beach. It’s a well-liked hangout for locals and is a terrific beach all around where you can swim and unwind, and it’s also regarded as a great surf beach.
3. What are the best activities and attractions in New Plymouth?
Steep climb Paritutu Rock
The first thing you want to do when you get to a new city is getting a decent perspective on it, right? Get your bearings, you know? In New Plymouth, Paritutu Rock is the appropriate location for that.
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Be prepared for a short but extremely steep hike up this enormous boulder on the coast of New Plymouth, which was produced by Mt. Taranaki’s volcanic activity.
Take the Coastal Walkway on foot or bicycle
There are several entertaining sculptures and beautiful coastal views along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway, which is a sort of landmark in the city. The entire path is made of concrete, making it ideal for cycling.
You can choose to simply join the boardwalk that runs nearly the full length of the New Plymouth shore, or you can walk the entire length (12.7km/7.9 miles). If you have to choose just one place to see on the walk, make it the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge!
Discover New Things at the Puke Ariki Museum
There should be an anti-boredom museum in every city (or rainy day activity). Puke Ariki is in New Plymouth to assist! This open-to-the-public museum has a ton to offer, including information on early Maori and European settlers, as well as the natural history of Mount Taranaki and all the species that have lived in the area over the years.
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Both young children and older children can engage in interactive exhibits. The Taranaki Aviation Transport & Technology Museum, the TSB Bowls New Zealand Museum, and the Fun Ho! National Toy Museum is a further museum in the region.
Don’t miss surfing in New Plymouth!
It would be wrong to leave surfing off of the list of the top fun things to do in New Plymouth because it is the city of surf. Fitzroy Beach and Back Beach, two fantastic surf beaches, are located immediately on the city’s shore.
If you don’t have your own board, there are many places to rent them, including Beach Street Surf Shop (39 Beach Street) and certain hostels in New Plymouth, which offer complimentary board rentals to their visitors.
Visit the Egmont Mountain and Forests National Park
The drive from New Plymouth might take you on some fantastic excursions. One of the most well-known is Mt. Taranaki, the mountain you can see from the city.
Visit the North Egmont Visitor Center to begin one of the numerous quick hikes or all-day treks through the lush forests of the Egmont National Park beneath the watchful summit of Mt. Taranaki. The travel from New Plymouth to the North Egmont Visitor Center is 30 minutes.
Check out Pukekura Park
Pukekura Park is a great option for outdoor recreation that is a little closer to the city center. There are several charming walks in the park that lead through gardens, duck ponds, lookouts, playgrounds, and other features. There is a lot to discover!
Visit Pukekura Park between December and February to take in the free Festival of Lights, which features light displays all throughout the park and a number of events like live concerts.
Travel along Surf Highway 45
Travel to Surf Highway 45 is the top fun thing to do in New Plymouth. Starting at New Plymouth, Surf Highway 45 passes via some of the top Taranaki seaside attractions.
Whether you choose to visit more historic locations like the SS Gairloch shipwreck or the Cape Egmont Lighthouse or follow the surf beaches, there are lots of amazing views to see.
Take a picnic or a bike ride to Lake Mangamahoe
This artificial lake west of New Plymouth is a must-see for photographers because it reflects the area’s natural elements, particularly Mt. Taranaki, in a breathtaking way.
Lake Mangamahoe is surrounded by 262 ha (647 acres) of woodland, so pack a picnic and unwind by the water. A mountain biking track and a circular hike are more ways to explore the area.
To the Sugar Loaf Islands via kayak
There are further reminders of New Plymouth’s volcanic heritage in addition to Mt. Taranaki and Paritutu Rock. More interesting volcanic formations can be found just off the coast of New Plymouth on the Sugar Loaf Islands.
Take a kayaking tour around the island with Canoe & Kayak Taranaki to see the seals and pass through the arches.
4. What time of year is ideal for outdoor activities in New Plymouth?
Outdoor activities are most enjoyable in January, February, March, April, and December.
