Things To Do
in Hawera
Hawera is a town located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand, known for its rich agricultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The town is home to the iconic Hawera Water Tower, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Hawera is also famous for its vibrant arts scene, with galleries showcasing local talent and creativity.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the town's charming shops, cafes, and parks while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local community.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Taranaki region, exploring the stunning local parks. Enjoy a refreshing walk along the scenic pathways amidst beautiful gardens.
Head over to the Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum to delve into the history of aviation. You can also enjoy a delightful lunch at a nearby café featuring local cuisine.
Wind down by visiting the local art gallery to appreciate the works of regional artists. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant downtown, sampling some fresh seafood.
Kick off your day with a hike in the picturesque Pūkekura Park. The lush greenery and tranquil lakes provide a perfect setting for nature lovers.
Visit the nearby Kaitaki Nature Reserve for a picnic amidst stunning views. Engage with local wildlife and learn about conservation efforts in the area.
Return to Hawera city for a delicious meal at a farm-to-table restaurant. Consider visiting a local pub for traditional Kiwi drinks and live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor recreational activities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Good educational facilities and schools.
- Moderate cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Proximity to Mt. Taranaki for hiking and nature exploration.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Possible isolation due to distance from major urban centers.
- Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options.
- Fewer healthcare facilities than larger cities.
- Public transport options may be less extensive.
Best Activities in Hawera
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large public park featuring walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, ideal for leisurely strolls and family activities.
A scenic 18-hole golf course surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for both beginners and experienced golfers.
A well-maintained cycling track offering various routes for cyclists of all skill levels, suitable for families and enthusiasts alike.
A stunning waterfall located a short drive from Hawera, with walking trails and viewing platforms for nature lovers.
A popular spot for surfing and water activities, ideal for those looking to enjoy the ocean waves and sun.
An outdoor swimming facility featuring pools and water slides, great for families and those looking to cool off.
A beautiful recreational area with sports fields, walking tracks, and picnic spots, perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Places to Visit in Hawera
Visit one of these nice places.
This lookout offers stunning views of the iconic Mount Taranaki and is a popular spot for breathtaking photographs, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The Hawera Water Tower provides a panoramic view of the surrounding town and countryside. Climbing to the top is worth it for capturing skyline shots.
Located a short drive from Hawera, these beautiful waterfalls are framed by lush greenery, making it a picturesque spot for nature photography.
This park features well-maintained gardens and a large pond, creating ideal settings for family photos or quiet landscape shots.
The scenic walk along the Patea River provides numerous opportunities for photos of the river, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
Various lookout points around Hawera offer breathtaking views of the majestic Mount Taranaki, perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
The exterior of the art gallery and its surrounding landscaped areas provide interesting architectural shots as well as potential for artistic photography.
Food in Hawera
Hawera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori method of cooking using heated rocks buried in a pit oven, resulting in succulent meat, vegetables, and stuffing. Must-try at the local Maori cultural events or some restaurants.
Must-Try!
A popular dessert made of a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits. Available in most local bakeries and dessert shops.
Renowned for its quality, New Zealand lamb is often served in various preparations at local restaurants and eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, artisanal food products, and ready-to-eat treats. Open on weekends, it's a great place to sample local snacks and products.
Every Friday, food trucks gather in the town center to offer a diverse range of street food, from gourmet burgers to international cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Hawera, like many towns in New Zealand, has a rich Maori heritage. It's important to acknowledge and respect local customs and traditions, such as participating in cultural events and understanding the significance of local landmarks.
New Zealanders generally value personal space. When interacting with locals, be mindful of physical distance and avoid standing too close during conversations to ensure comfort.
Using polite language is key in Hawera. Common phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' go a long way. Address people with courtesy, and if you're unsure about someone's name or title, it's best to ask.
Safety
Tipping in Hawera
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hawera, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. Service charges are usually included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, if customers receive exceptional service, they may choose to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment methods in Hawera include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Most businesses, including cafes, shops, and services, accept cards, which are widely used. Some establishments may also offer contactless payment options for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Hawera is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 30°C. This is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, and exploring the local parks. Expect long days and vibrant flora.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C and beautiful changing foliage. It's an ideal time for more comfortable outdoor activities and experiencing local cuisine at harvest festivals. Rainfall starts to increase.
Winter in Hawera can be quite cool, with temperatures averaging between 5°C to 15°C. Expect more rain and some chilly winds. This season offers a quieter experience, perfect for indoor activities like visiting museums and local galleries.
Spring sees a warming trend with temperatures climbing back to 10°C to 20°C. The landscape begins to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit gardens and parks. There are often community events celebrating the season and an increase in outdoor activities.
Hawera at Night
Hiking in Hawera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with well-marked walking tracks, stunning waterfalls, and native bush.
Features a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, with spectacular views of Mount Taranaki.
An easy loop track located near Hawera, offering views of local landscapes and the surrounding countryside.
Located in nearby New Plymouth, this park has multiple walking trails amidst beautiful gardens and a lake.
A pleasant walking track along the river and through scenic countryside, ideal for families.
Aiports
How to reach Hawera by plane.
The closest international airport to Hawera, located approximately 50 km to the northwest.
Located about 270 km to the south, this is one of the largest international airports in New Zealand.
Located approximately 400 km to the northeast, it is the busiest airport in New Zealand and serves as a major international gateway.
Roughly 430 km to the south of Hawera, it is the second-largest international airport in New Zealand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Hawera, primarily of New Zealand European descent.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, making up a significant portion of Hawera's population.
Includes individuals from various Pacific Island nations, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Hawera.
A smaller, but growing demographic group in Hawera, representing various Asian nationalities.
A smaller segment of the population, adding to the diversity of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular bat-and-ball game played in various formats, enjoyed by both players and fans in Hawera.
A major sport in New Zealand, rugby has a strong following in Hawera with local clubs and community participation.
A team sport that is especially popular among women and girls, with numerous local competitions taking place.
An increasingly popular sport, with local leagues and clubs fostering community engagement and youth participation.
Various running and field events are popular, with local schools and clubs promoting competitions.
Field hockey has a dedicated following, with clubs providing opportunities for all ages to participate.
Golf is enjoyed by many in Hawera, with local courses providing a scenic venue for both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hawera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Hawera cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. Look for options like roasted vegetable platters, plant-based burgers, and fresh salads.
Several eateries offer gluten-free alternatives, including gluten-free bread for sandwiches, pasta dishes made with gluten-free ingredients, and flourless dessert options.