The best way to see Taranaki is undoubtedly to jump in a car and loop around the mountain. The landscape changes massively depending on which side you are on, from the lush rainforests in the north to the rugged surf coast in the west and the rolling dairy country in the south.
Here's a quick run-down on how to tackle the ultimate loop.
Start in New Plymouth
Base yourself here for a couple of days. Walk the Coastal Walkway, grab a coffee at one of the brilliant local cafes, and check out Pukekura Park. It's the bustling hub of the region.
Head down Surf Highway 45
Cruise south down the coast. Stop at Ōakura, grab fish and chips at Ōpunakē, and check out the Cape Egmont Lighthouse. This is the cruisy, laid-back side of the mountain.
Loop through South Taranaki and Stratford
As you swing around the bottom, check out the Tawhiti Museum near Hāwera. Then head north to Stratford, maybe heading up the mountain to Dawson Falls for a walk through the goblin forest.
Finish up in Inglewood
As you complete the loop back towards New Plymouth, stop through Inglewood. It has a great community feel and some really nice historic buildings.
You can do it in a day, but really, you want at least three or four to do it justice!
Overnight in Ōpunakē
Halfway around the loop, Ōpunakē is the perfect spot to spend a night. Grab a sunset surf, walk the Ōpunakē Loop Trail, and embrace the slow-paced coastal living before you continue your journey toward Hāwera.
Climb the Hāwera Water Tower
As you round the southern end of the mountain, stop in Hāwera and climb the 215 steps of its iconic water tower. Built in 1914 in response to a series of devastating town fires, the view from the top stretches over the dairy country to the mountain.
Stroll around King Edward Park
Also in Hāwera, this beautifully manicured park is ideal for a picnic lunch. It features a historic statue of Peter Pan, a stunning lake, and a playground. It's a beautifully peaceful breaking point in your road trip.
