Your Guide to Exploring Taranaki

Family Friendly Activities

🌊 Beaches

East End – The most family-friendly beach in New Plymouth.

  • Patrolled by lifeguards during summer
  • Gentle swimming area compared to many west coast beaches
  • Large playground nearby
  • Café and toilets
  • Easy parking
  • Great for picnics

Fitzroy Beach – A favourite with local families.

  • Lifeguards in summer
  • Wide sandy beach
  • Playground nearby
  • Close to cafés and the Coastal Walkway
  • Great for sandcastles and beach games

The surf can become strong, so swimming should always be between the flags when lifeguards are present.

Ngāmotu Beach – One of the calmest swimming beaches in the region.

  • Sheltered by the harbour breakwater
  • Generally calmer water than the open surf beaches
  • Perfect for paddling and younger swimmers
  • Grassed picnic areas
  • Playground nearby
  • Popular for kayaking and paddleboarding

This is often the best choice for families with toddlers.

Free Things to Do in Taranaki

  • Coastal Walkway
  • Te Rewa Rewa Bridge
  • Pukekura Park
  • Wind Wand
  • Beaches
  • Lake Mangamahoe
  • Pouakai Tarns (weather permitting)
  • Tūpare Gardens

Rainy Day Ideas

  • Len Lye Centre
  • Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
  • Puke Ariki
  • Shopping
  • Escape rooms
  • Cinema

Hidden Gems

  • Lake Mangamahoe
  • Lucy’s Gully
  • Oakura
  • Ōpunake
  • Three Sisters (season dependent)
  • Back Beach
  • Paritutu Rock

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should I spend in Taranaki?

Two to four days gives you enough time to experience New Plymouth, explore the region’s stunning coastline, enjoy local food, and visit Taranaki Maunga. Outdoor enthusiasts often choose to stay even longer.

What is Taranaki famous for?

Taranaki is known for its iconic mountain, world-class surf beaches, dramatic coastline, award-winning gardens, vibrant arts scene, walking tracks and exceptional local food and produce.

Is New Plymouth worth visiting?

Absolutely. New Plymouth combines a relaxed coastal lifestyle with excellent dining, galleries, gardens and outdoor adventures. It’s consistently recognised as one of New Zealand’s most liveable cities and is an ideal base for exploring the wider Taranaki region.

Where should I stay in Taranaki?

For visitors wanting to explore New Plymouth and the wider region, staying in central New Plymouth provides easy access to the Coastal Walkway, Pukekura Park, restaurants, galleries and major attractions. Novotel Ngāmotu offers a convenient base with modern accommodation, onsite dining and conference facilities.