All content tagged with "Recreation"
Construction has reached the framing stage for the Tūparikino Active Hub, a $50 million six-court indoor sports stadium in New Plymouth scheduled to open by mid-2028.
Three trampers, including two who were seriously injured, have been successfully rescued from Mount Taranaki following a challenging search and rescue operation.
The Fitzroy beach access project is nearing completion, with recent progress captured in photos.
Emergency services have successfully rescued an injured climber from Taranaki Maunga after a fall left him stranded in snow and rocks above the ski field.
The Destination Kāwaroa project has won the Beca Award for Excellence in Placemaking at the LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards.
The Taranaki Tarmac Rally returns on 27 June as the third round of the 2026 Hawkeswood Mining North Island Rally Series, bringing top competitors to the region.
Work has officially started on the new equestrian centre at Stratford Park, marking a major milestone in the Stratford A&P Association's long-term community development plan.
Taranaki locals Thomas Goodwin and Dennis Pike are fundraising to build adaptive, family-friendly trail loops at Lake Mangamahoe's bike park, featuring an upcoming Dusk to Dawn challenge.
Fitzroy Beach is set to host top-ranked surfers from New Zealand and Australia this weekend for the Egmont Honey Pro LQS, the final stop of the regional qualifying series.
Progress photos show the construction of the Fitzroy Beach ramp and steps project, which is scheduled for completion in late June.
The Mātairangi Lookout, built early last year near the New Plymouth Airport, offers scenic views for visitors.
Hillsborough in New Plymouth features Taranaki's own luge, a Mount Panorama themed mini-putt, a Holden museum, a Percy train, and a cafe.
Stunning views captured from Marsland Hill, a popular scenic lookout spot located in New Plymouth.
A playful “Buoyden Barrett” sighting at the Breakwater in New Plymouth.
A stunning sunset was captured over the Coastal Walkway by Taranaki Media.
New Plymouth's CBD is set to host an ultimate family day out on 28 February, featuring AmeriCARnival, heritage train rides, and Puke Ariki's interactive Rescue exhibition.
The Hillsborough Car Museum, Luge and Mini Golf attraction is located on Egmont Road in New Plymouth.
Locals and visitors enjoy summer at Ōpunake Beach ahead of New Year’s Eve.
Stratford Speedway roars to life tonight with the Ramp Demolition Derby featuring 26 cars, alongside the Repco Taranaki Superstock Champs and Zodiac Signs Taranaki Minisprint Champs.
A beautiful evening scene captured at Lake Rotomanu.
Weeks after opening, Destination Kāwaroa playground is installing a new shade structure, built by local firm Bullitt Fabrications, to address community feedback and enhance visitor comfort during summer.
A new shade structure is installed at the Destination Kāwaroa playground by Bullitt Fabrications.
Destination Kāwaroa officially launched Stages 2 and 3 with a "Big Day of Play," expanding the inclusive coastal playground with new features, largely funded by philanthropy and grants.
Destination Kāwaroa has opened its second and third stages, featuring new towers, slides, and a flying fox, built through a collaborative public-private partnership.
A preview of the new additions to Destination Kāwaroa as stages two and three near completion ahead of the community opening.
A beautiful day brings scenic coastal views around the Taranaki region.
A family walk to the Taranaki ski field takes in wintry conditions and the new bridge.
Visitors enjoy a beautiful sunny day at Lake Rotomanu and the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway.
The Pump Track is the newest addition to Aotea Park in Waverley, perfect for riders to build confidence, develop skills, and have a blast. Grab your bike and check it out.
Once known as the Old Waterworks Reserve, the name was changed in 1989 in recognition of Audrey Gale, a longstanding councillor and active community member. A commemorative bronze plaque at the park entrance outlines Mrs Gale’s outstanding career.
Voted one of New Zealand's favourite beaches, Back Beach is a must visit.
Relaxing location with breathtaking sea views. A great range of modern accommodation to suit each person’s unique requirements providing a perfect choice for the ultimate Taranaki experience.
Following the Waingongoro River at Cardiff, approximately 6km from Stratford, this is a pleasant 3km walkway through farmland and natural bush which gives access to points of local historical significance.
A looped urban and river bush walk encompassing native bush as well as introduced European and American species. Along the walkway discover some impressive views of Taranaki Maunga.
Coastal Market Garden is a small scale market garden that sells fresh, natural organically grown fruits and vegetables at the Taranaki Farmers Market on Sunday mornings and online with delivery to the local area in Oakura and Okato.
Walk to Curtis Falls and enjoy a dip in the shallow pool beneath the falls. This track also leads to Maketawa Hut.
This 250m one way track is an easy walk down a series of steps. Walk to the lookout point or the base of Dawson Falls/ Te Rere o Noke in Egmont National Park.
Discover this epic new play area, overlooking New Plymouth’s Coastal Walkway that offers a huge interactive space for the whole family to enjoy.
A patrolled swimming beach in summer, this spot is also becoming known as a kite surfing destination.
EGMONT ECO LEISURE PARK & BACKPACKERS “The Ultimate Exclusive Retreat to Ensure your Holidays and Stay become a Memorable Experience.” Our peaceful sanctuary epitomising an environmentally friendly, secure environment.
Everett Park is located 8km east of Inglewood and sits on the banks of the Manganui River. It is a popular picnic and swimming area as well as bushwalking and fishing. At night, thousands of glow worms shine in the large cave by the third carpark.
Take a splash with the family at Fitzroy Beach.
We're New Plymouth's only holiday park on the beach with facilities for the whole family and a range of accommodation to suit your needs. Guests love our great location and friendly service. Book now to make your own great memories at Fitzroy Beach.
Originally part of the home garden of community leader and farmer Charles Goodson, the Dell was first developed as a swimming pool by damming a small spring.
Established in the fertile rural landscape south of Mt Taranaki by Bernie Hollard in the 1920s, this property boasts a plant collection of national importance. It features many rhododendrons and unusual plants, and offers delightful contrasts.
The 5km walkway follows the meandering Huatoki Stream from the city foreshore, winding through the city, parks, native bush and surrounding suburbs.
The first homestead of Taranaki pioneer Harry Atkinson, who later became Premier of New Zealand, the cottage has an attractive garden, period furniture, family mementos along with graffiti from the New Zealand Wars.
Open year-round, the Hāwera Aquatic Centre boasts both an indoor and outdoor complex. The Aquatic Centre is the place for family fun.
Your local sports bar in the CBD.
Inglewood Mini Golf offers a fun-filled mini golf experience for all ages, rain or shine.
Kamahi Loop Track, also known as Goblin Forest, is a magical walk through moss-draped trees and lush native bush on Taranaki Maunga, offering an enchanting rainforest experience for all ages.
A pleasant drive to 900m above sea level on Taranaki Maunga/Mount Taranaki's south-eastern slopes brings you to the Dawson Falls road-end. This is the starting point for many walks on this side of the mountain. The Kapuni Loop track meanders its way down the right bank of the Kapuni River where alpine plant species can be found out of their vegetation zone due to water- and wind-borne seed distribution. Witness the river carving its way down the ancient lava flows to Dawson Falls/Te Rere o Noke.
A hidden piece of paradise located just off SH45 in South Taranaki. Great for families, tourists, couples & solo travellers. Located next to the Kaupokonui River with access to the beach for swimming, fishing, kayaking & surfing.
King Edward Park offers pleasant picnic spots in tranquil locations, spectacular floral borders and rose gardens, dramatic seasonal changes and a wide range of amenities and attractions.
Located within easy reach of the town centre King Edward Park is an ideal sanctuary to experience countless varieties of plants, mature trees, birdlife, and fast-flowing mountain streams.
A contemporary art gallery and garden featuring New Zealand and local artists.
Near Okato part way along the legendary Surf Highway 45, the Kumara Patch is a left-hand point break with a sandy beach.
This established private garden has a backbone of mature trees, the lake lapping on one side, the homestead and wedding barn in one corner.
Lake Mangamahoe is a popular location for mountain biking, walking, and running, and has a bridle path for horses, a scenic lake and park, not to mention the multiple lookout vantage points that offer iconic and spectacular views of Taranaki Maunga across the lake.
Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve is a peaceful 230-hectare predator-free environment, where you will be surrounded by native and endangered flora and fauna, an impressive predator-proof fence, the lake itself and various wetlands.
This is an attractive, short (1.5km) lakeside loop-walk located at the southern end of Lake Rotorangi. The walkway crosses the 82m-high Pātea dam and through virgin bush filled with tawa and hīnau. A feature of the walkway is a grove of black beech or tawhairauriki, which flower in a burst of brilliant red in October and November. The campground located by the dam offers toilet facilities, showers, and tent sites.
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Named after Lucy Stevens who lived in Oakura in the early 1900s, Lucy's Gully is a popular picnic spot and can be used to access the Waimoku and Sefton Ridge tracks.
Magnum Sports Stratford was established approximately 84 years ago. David Hartley purchased this well-established business in 2017. Before David purchased Magnum Sports, he spent 9 years working as an NZ Army Gunsmith. David has a genuine love for...
This is a good day or overnight tramp, with fantastic views of Taranaki Maunga from Maketawa Hut.
Mangamahoe Mountain Bike Park is Taranaki’s premier single-track riding venue. Located in the plantation forest east of Lake Mangamahoe, it contains over 30km of tracks, from beginner-friendly green trails to double-black advanced lines.
This track takes you to the Manganui Gorge suspension bridge then on to the ski field. On a clear day this walk provides great views of North Taranaki and up the coastline.
Only minutes away from the Bell Block residential area, these routes travel through farmland and coastal plantings, offering picturesque vantage points and intriguing historic sites.
On a fine day enjoy spectacular views of Taranaki and the Pouākai Tarn on this day hike or overnight tramp.
First settled in the 1730s by Ngā Pōtiki-taua hapu, Marsland Hill was originally known as Pukaka Pa. Since then the strategic position of the hill has seen it given many uses and today it is a popular, accessible and scenic recreational reserve.
Matekai Park was established in 1980 with subsequent land being purchased to create a 6.5 hectare area that is a popular link between Oakura village and the beach.
Maude Track leads from the end of Maude Road to the pretty Mangakotukutuku Falls.
Enjoy a picnic beside the Waiwhakaiho River and choose from two short walks suitable for all abilities. Both walks can be accessed from the Meeting of the Waters car park.
Nestled in the northern Taranaki forests, just off the Forgotten World Highway, the 74m high Mt Damper Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the North Island and is a must-see for travellers.
Renowned as a goblin park and a native plant park, Naumai Park offers an overwhelming sense of being in an untouched native bush environment.
The award-winning Coastal Walkway is an expansive sea-edge promenade stretching almost the entire length of New Plymouth. Ideal for walking, running, cycling, skating, or simply enjoying the view of the dramatic west coast, the walkway is perfect for all ages and abilities.
Our holiday park accommodation options cater for camping, motorhome or caravan, comfortable cabins and self-contained units. We offer you a variety of accommodation to suit your holiday style, family and your budget.
Nikau Grove is a peaceful surprise nestled in the suburbs of New Plymouth. Set in a gully of lush native rainforest, this mature garden of approximately one and a half acres incorporates a variety of intimate and larger spaces, with an emphasis on native plants, which link seamlessly into exotic plantings.
Enjoy this short walk through a growing bush area.
Situated just 2km from the South Taranaki coast, this established garden shelter creates a haven from prevailing winds. The striking private garden has developed a style that reflects owner Jenny Oakley’s formal horticulture and landscape design training and is recognised as a Garden of National Significance.
Oakura Beach is a popular beach, especially for families.
Welcome To Oakura Beach Holiday Park. With New Plymouth just 15 minutes away, Oakura Beach Holiday Park is great for a fun and relaxing family beach holiday. You'll be staying at one of Taranaki's most popular and spectacular beaches.
Just 11.5km north of Waitara, Onaero Bay Holiday Park is in a spectacular location, on both sides of the Onaero River and surrounded by native bush.
Opunake Beach Kiwi Holiday Park is an ideal family park, unique beachfront location on a safe surf patrolled beach (over summer) in a sheltered sandy bay. Great fishing & surfing with children's playground.
Climb to the top of Paritutu in around 15 minutes to enjoy a bird's eye view of New Plymouth and its coastline from the top of this distinctive volcanic outcrop.
Experience the unique landscape and community of Pātea off the beaten track and right on the iconic river side.
This barrier-free track starts at the Potaema picnic area about 3km from the national park boundary on Pembroke Road. The fully accessible, wheelchair/pushchair-friendly track is suited to all abilities and exhibits a rainforest environment lush with its hanging gardens and carpets of moss and ferns dwarfed by a towering forest. It is the perfect short walk for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of Taranaki Maunga without committing to a hike.
The Pouākai Circuit displays centuries of volcanic activity with the active erosion scar of the Boomerang Slip, the towering columns of the Dieffenbach Cliffs and the red water of the Kokowai Stream caused by manganese oxide oozing from the earth. The circuit takes you through the fragile Ahukawakawa Swamp, golden tussocks, summer flowers with a side trip to the Stony River’s Bells Falls.
The Pouākai Crossing is Taranaki Maunga/Mount Taranaki’s premier one-day walk that takes in the highlights of the longer two to three-day Pouākai Circuit. If you’re only completing one tramp in Taranaki this is the one to do.
Renowned for its rhododendron collection, Pukeiti is a 360ha rainforest property located between Mount Taranaki and the coast, just south of New Plymouth. Established in 1951, Pukeiti is an internationally recognised garden and plant collection.
Pukekura Park is a world-renowned park located in the heart of New Plymouth city. Beginning its life as a barren and swampy valley, it has been shaped into one of the best inner-city parks in New Zealand and is the backdrop for the annual TSB Bank Festival of Lights - a free light and entertainment event held from mid-December to late January.
Puketarata Garden - A Garden of National Significance located in South Taranaki. A large country garden. We are open during the Taranaki Garden Festival & at other times by arrangement. Check out the website www.puketaratagarden.co.nz
Learn about Pātea’s rich history and follow the lower end of the Pātea River through pastures and pine forest to several points of interest dating back to the 1860s. Start the walk at either end, and if you finish at the beach, enjoy a meal using one of the free electronic barbecues in the picnic area. Toilets are available at the beach.
This is a circular walk in a 36ha blend of open spaces, plantations, bush and a wetland area (Barrett Lagoon). The domain is also a wildlife refuge. Explore an abundance of native bird life, wetland and lake habitats and indigenous vegetation in this urban oasis.
With dappled light shining through nīkau palms, kohekohe trees and tawa, this lush temperate rainforest walk is very photogenic and looks like a walk in the tropics. It is an easy-to-follow track, but can be steep in places and has steps. It is well worth a visit.
Nothing brings people together like good food.
Stark and Bridger parks provide a charming and restful centrepiece to Eltham’s historic retail precinct.
Enjoy lowland bush and views of Taranaki Maunga on this 3km walk.
Stratford Children’s Bike Park and Victoria Park Playground
The Stratford Heritage Walkway combines the unique features of Stratford: areas of parks and gardens, the crystal-clear mountain-fed waters of the Pātea River, the Shakespearean background reflected in street names, and the pioneering development of the town as outlined by many buildings and points of special interest.
Set in beautiful Park like grounds, choose from our Motels, cabins, backpackers lodge or camping. We are the gateway to Mt. Egmont National Park and have an accommodation option for every budget.
TATATM preserves Taranaki’s past for the enjoyment of future generations.
The TET MultiSports Centre was officially opened in March 2002. It is owned by the Stratford Community Sports Society (SCSS) and is currently managed by Steve and Fiona. The TET MultiSports Centre is home to many Stratford sports clubs i.e. Darts...
The TET Stadium & Events Centre is a multi-purpose sports and functions venue, centrally located in Taranaki, and just 15 minutes from New Plymouth. Boasting New Zealand’s first Olympic class Mondo athletics track and ...
TSB Stadium is a multi-purpose events centre that can cater for sports, concerts, exhibitions, trade shows dinners, conventions and community events.
The Taranaki Cycle Park was opened in September 2012 and is situated at Hickford Park, Bell Block.
Hike Taranaki’s best tracks with the comfort of an all-inclusive package and the safety support of a small, guide-led group.
Running alongside the main garden festival, the Fringe Festival offers a grassroots look at 'real gardens for real people'. It's an inspiring, friendly tour of diverse local gardens.
This climb is the most spectacular and adventurous in Taranaki but it is not to be taken lightly – Taranaki Maunga/Mount Taranaki is more difficult and dangerous than it may appear. It should only be attempted in good weather by fit and experienced trampers with proper equipment. The best time to climb Taranaki Maunga is from February to mid-April when the slopes are bare of snow (though ice remains year-round in the crater). It takes eight to 10 hours to complete. In winter and spring, snow and ice on the slopes requires mountaineering experience and equipment, and a different route into the crater than described below. You are strongly advised not to climb in winter and spring conditions unless you have appropriate experience, equipment and knowledge of Taranaki Maunga. Before you climb, check the weather forecast at the Metservice and check the DoC website for any current information or alerts.
One of New Plymouth’s hidden gems, Te Henui Cemetery covers approximately 24 acres and boasts an eclectic mix of plantings designed to provide a year-round display.
Te Henui Walkway is one of the most beautiful walkways in New Plymouth District, which winds its way up from the coast through a variety of native and exotic flora, past historical pā sites, and several picnic areas and swimming holes. It is also the access point to the coveted gardens of Te Henui Cemetery.
Te Kainga Marire, Māori for “the peaceful encampment", is a skillfully designed native inner-city garden that mimics New Zealand’s natural environment.
Te Popo Gardens & Accommodation is the largest privately owned garden in Taranaki, located only 15 minutes from Stratford.
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is an iconic pedestrian and cycle bridge in New Plymouth, perfectly framing views of Taranaki Maunga.
Te Wera Valley Lodge is situated along the scenic Forgotten World Highway, approximately 37km’s from Stratford’s town centre. Te Wera has a wonderful tranquil atmosphere. It is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic surrounding...
Te Wera Valley lodge provides an opportunity for lodgers to experience a rustic, no frills lifestyle whilst still being able to access modern comforts. Stay at Te Wera Valley Lodge Campground whilst exploring the Forgotten World Highway (SH 43).
New Plymouth’s first golf simulator bar. We’re pouring Shining Peak Brewing beers, dishing up serious flavour from Serial Griller, and firing up full-swing golf sims. Rain, hail or shine.
Regarded as Hawera’s best motel, The Park is a modern, spacious complex with studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments and spa units. The discerning traveller can expect quality services and experiences (including free wifi) at The Park.
Developed in 2001, the Arboretum was made possible by a bequest to the community from the late Percy Thomson, a former mayor of Stratford who died in 1962. The bequest also funded a virtual herbarium which can be found at www.taranakiplants.net.nz
The Todd Energy Aquatic Centre is an indoor/outdoor swimming complex. Great for the whole family - warm, safe and fun. Enjoy the wave pool, sauna, spa, fitness centre and other facilities all year round.
Just a short drive from New Plymouth, Tupare is one of New Zealand's most beautiful and distinctive gardens. It is one of three heritage properties owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region.
Urenui Beach Motor Camp is a friendly family camp with clean and modern amenities, and a beachfront and river location. Our accommodation includes Standard Cabins, On-Site Caravans, Powered Sites, and Non-Powered Sites.
Dating back to 1885, Victoria Park gained its name and many of its trees in 1897, when £5 was spent on the purchase and planting of trees to commemorate 60 years of reign by Queen Victoria.
Wai o Rua - Stratford Aquatic Centre is a hub of activity for all ages. Families come to splash around in the heated pools, children take their first strokes in the 'Learn to Swim' programmes, and adults indulge in wellness activities like aqua aerobics, hydro spin-bikes, and lane swimming.
Waingongoro Hut is a good overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers - walk through goblin forest, see the lava-formed pools, and cross the highest swing bridge in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki.
Uncover the stories of Waitara as you make your way from Marine Park on the coast to Waitara CBD, following the Waitara river on this unique eel-themed walkway.
Experience the powerful cinematic landscapes and iron sand beaches of the Taranaki region. Refresh yourself in primordial ‘goblin’ rainforest in the foothills of New Zealand’s most photogenic mount...
With a long history in coach transport, Weir Tours pride themselves on their complete travel experience which includes popular tour packages and custom group charters. Family owned and operated with 50 years of travel experience.
