You can take the inland route between New Plymouth and Hāwera... but why would you when Surf Highway 45 exists? This iconic stretch of road hugs the coastline, wrapping around the base of Mount Taranaki and offering up some of the best surf spots in the country.
Even if you don't own a surfboard, it's a brilliant road trip loaded with wild black sand beaches, quirky cafes, and heaps of history. Here are a few spots you need to pull over for.
Catch a wave at Ōpunakē Beach
Ōpunakē is the quintessential Kiwi beach town. The main beach here is fantastic and generally safer for swimming than some of the wilder surf breaks up the coast. Grab some fish and chips, and sit on the sand—classic.
Get snap-happy at Cape Egmont Lighthouse
Standing bright white against a backdrop of the Tasman Sea and Mount Taranaki, this 1881 lighthouse is a photographer's dream. It’s located at the westernmost point of the Taranaki coast, so it catches all the weather!
Check out the surf at Stent Road
If you are hunting for waves, Stent Road is legendary. It’s a powerful, hollow right-hand point break that attracts surfers from all over. Even if you aren't paddling out, it's an epic spot to sit on the rocks and watch the locals carve it up.
Take a walk at Back Beach
Located just on the edge of New Plymouth, Back Beach is a famously rugged and expansive black sand beach right under the towering Paritutu Rock. It offers massive dunes, serious breakers, and is a fantastic spot to watch the sun sink into the ocean.
Spot the SS Gairloch Shipwreck
Just off the coast near Ōakura, you can see the rusted skeleton of the SS Gairloch, which ran aground in 1903. It’s a stark reminder of how wild this coastline can be, and makes for a fantastic muddy, low-tide exploration mission.
Walk the Ōhawe Beach to Waihi Beach Trail
Down towards the southern end of the highway, this coastal walkway gives you sweeping views of the South Taranaki Bight. The rugged cliffs dropping into the churning sea are an incredible sight on a windy day.
Chill out at Kaupokonui Beach
A hidden gem where the Kaupokonui Stream meets the sea. There’s a classic wooden suspension bridge, a great little campground, and safe swimming holes in the stream if the main surf is looking too rough.
Take it slow, chuck your favourite playlist on, and enjoy the ride down the coast.
