The Coastal Walkway puts the coastline of New Plymouth District into clear perspective: the 13.2-kilometre path runs along the shore from Pioneer Park at Port Taranaki to the eastern side of Bell Block Beach. Using the endpoints as reference points shows how far the coastal path extends. One specific access point to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is on the section from the Waiwhakaiho River to the car park on Smeaton Road.
Local history and nature at Puke Ariki
Puke Ariki brings together different ways to explore the region’s history and natural world. The museum has three permanent exhibition galleries, devoted to the region’s history, taonga and natural world. Entry to all areas is free; as entry arrangements can change, check the latest visitor information before your visit.
The Puke Ariki Historic Walk offers another perspective. This guided tour takes you through central New Plymouth, covers about three kilometres and lasts two hours. The museum and walk offer different focuses: the galleries centre on exhibitions about history, taonga and nature, while the tour takes you through the city centre. Times and booking conditions may change, so check the latest details as you plan.
Wildlife and trails with their own character
Brooklands Zoo is home to capuchin monkeys, meerkats, parrots and tortoises, among other animals. The zoo can be reached on foot from the city centre through Pukekura Park; another access option is via Brooklands Park Drive. Keepers give talks on weekends and during school holidays, twice daily at 12 pm and 2 pm. As the schedule may change, check the latest visitor information if you want to plan your visit around a talk.
Other trails lead through very different landscapes. The interpretive trail at Pukerangiora Pā is an easy loop around the pā site. A lookout on the cliff offers expansive views, and there are archaeological features along the way. By contrast, the Stony River (Hangatahua) Walkway passes through lowland bush and offers views of Taranaki Maunga. You can walk it as an out-and-back route or a loop. These descriptions show two distinct types of trail, without implying that both are explored in the same way.
The landscape takes on a different character by the water, too: Waitara Marine Park lies where the Waitara River meets the sea. Along with the coastal path, bush landscapes and views of Taranaki Maunga, it contributes to the District’s varied character, without requiring a set itinerary. You can focus on individual themes: coast, local history, wildlife or trails in nature.
Taranaki in the wider region
The wider Taranaki destination also offers longer hikes. The Pouākai Crossing is an outstanding 19-kilometre day hike in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki National Park. It usually takes between 7 hours 30 minutes and 9 hours 30 minutes. The route passes through Ahukawakawa Swamp and reaches tarns that reflect Taranaki Maunga. Taranaki Maunga is an ancestral mountain with a deep cultural and spiritual connection to the eight iwi of Taranaki.
The Taranaki Maunga Summit Climb is a separate, strenuous full-day hike. Visitors can arrange transport to the starting point through several local operators; there is no scheduled transport service. The two hikes have different durations and requirements. Visitors can also explore the walking tracks in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki National Park; check the latest tour and track information before planning.
Other discoveries are also part of the wider Taranaki destination. Surf Highway 45 is a 105-kilometre coastal route between New Plymouth and Hāwera. Along it are dozens of surf breaks, beaches, historic and cultural attractions, viewpoints and cafés in Taranaki villages. Guided and self-guided walks are available in Pukekura Park; check availability again before your trip. Tūpare is an outstanding landscape garden with a unique homestead and recently received the highest, six-star rating from the NZ Gardens Trust.
Explore more destinations
New Plymouth, Oakura, Egmont Village, Hillsborough, Stratford, South Taranaki District
Return to the wider travel overview: Taranaki.
