Things To Do
in New Plymouth
New Plymouth is a coastal city situated on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. Known for its picturesque landscapes, it is surrounded by lush greenery and the iconic Mount Taranaki. The city offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries and museums to explore.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring the Egmont National Park.
- "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: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike up Mount Taranaki for stunning views of the volcano and surrounding landscapes. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top.
After descending, visit the Taranaki Kate Sheppard Place to learn about women's suffrage in New Zealand. Explore the beautiful gardens and take some photos.
Head to the coastal walkway for a scenic sunset view. Grab dinner at a local seafood restaurant to enjoy fresh fish.
Spend your morning at Oakura Beach, perfecting your surfing skills or simply relaxing by the seaside. Grab a coffee from a local café while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Visit the nearby Te Rewa Rewa Bridge for its unique design and photo opportunities. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway.
Dine at one of the beachfront restaurants, savoring fresh local cuisine. Enjoy a relaxed evening stroll along the beach as the stars come out.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes including Mount Taranaki and the coastline.
- Friendly and welcoming community with a laid-back lifestyle.
- Rich cultural scene with galleries, museums, and festivals.
- Good recreational opportunities including hiking, surfing, and cycling.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger New Zealand cities.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Public transportation options can be limited.
- Potentially harsh weather conditions with frequent rain.
- Distance from larger urban centers for shopping and amenities.
- Fewer entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
Best Activities in New Plymouth
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the iconic Coastal Walkway that stretches along the coast of New Plymouth.
Explore the lush gardens, lakes, and walking trails in this beautiful park, and don't miss the iconic Festival of Lights during the summer months.
New Plymouth is home to some great surf spots, with Fitzroy Beach being a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
For the more adventurous, consider hiking or climbing Mount Taranaki, an impressive and iconic peak in the region.
Take to the water and enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking along the coastline, a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Places to Visit in New Plymouth
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural landmark offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and providing numerous photo opportunities.
Scenic coastal walkway offering beautiful views of the coast, the city, and the iconic Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, perfect for capturing memorable photographs.
A picturesque park with lush greenery, lakes, and exotic plants, providing plenty of opportunities for capturing natural beauty through photography.
Food in New Plymouth
New Plymouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori sourdough bread made from fermented potato, often served with butter and spreads. A must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of local Maori cuisine.
Must-Try!
Renowned for their sweet, delicate flavor, Taranaki Scallops are best enjoyed pan-seared with a hint of lemon and local herbs. Many restaurants along the coastal areas offer this delectable dish.
A traditional Maori cooking method that involves slow-cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven. Some local Maori cultural experiences and festivals in New Plymouth offer the opportunity to taste this unique dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Sunday, this market showcases an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, organic meats, and diverse street food stalls offering international flavors. It's a great place to sample local and international street food.
Set against the backdrop of the stunning Coastal Walkway, these markets feature a wide variety of food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to exotic ethnic street food. It's a fantastic spot to savor local street food while enjoying the picturesque coastal views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to be mindful and respectful of the Maori culture, including the customs, traditions, and language of the indigenous people of New Zealand. Understanding the concept of mana (prestige) and showing respect towards it is essential.
In New Plymouth, it's considered respectful to be punctual for social and business appointments. Arriving on time shows consideration for others and their time.
New Zealanders typically have a strong respect for the environment. When in New Plymouth, it's important to dispose of waste properly, respect natural spaces, and adhere to local conservation efforts.
Safety
Tipping in New Plymouth
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in New Zealand, including New Plymouth. It is not expected or required to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for other services.
In New Plymouth, as in the rest of New Zealand, payments are commonly made using credit or debit cards. Cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and most businesses, including restaurants and shops, accept electronic payment methods.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit New Plymouth, with warm and sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches and coastal attractions. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher accommodation prices and larger crowds.
Warm days and cooler nights make autumn a pleasant time to visit. The Taranaki Garden Festival in October is a major highlight, showcasing the region's beautiful gardens.
Cool and sometimes wet weather, but a great time to experience the region's art and cultural scene, including the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and the TSB Showplace.
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a beautiful time to visit. It's also a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding Egmont National Park.
New Plymouth at Night
Hiking in New Plymouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring Mount Taranaki, with a range of hiking trails for all skill levels, offering breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.
A scenic park in New Plymouth with well-maintained walking paths, gardens, and a picturesque lake, perfect for light hikes and leisurely walks.
A beautiful coastal trail extending from New Plymouth to Oakura, ideal for walking, running, or cycling while enjoying stunning views of the ocean and unique rock formations.
A leisurely walk alongside the Waitara River with scenic views, parks, and picnic areas, suitable for families and casual hikers.
A walking trail through the picturesque Mokau Valley, featuring lush landscapes, river views, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Aiports
How to reach New Plymouth by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located approximately 260 kilometers north of New Plymouth.
The main airport serving the capital city of New Zealand, approximately 350 kilometers southeast of New Plymouth.
The second largest airport in New Zealand, located about 700 kilometers south of New Plymouth.
An airport in the Waikato region, around 220 kilometers north of New Plymouth.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in New Plymouth, primarily of European descent.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, representing a significant cultural and historical presence in New Plymouth.
A growing demographic, including individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes individuals with heritage from the Pacific Islands, forming an important part of the community.
A category that includes various smaller ethnic groups that contribute to the multicultural fabric of New Plymouth.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in New Plymouth, with local clubs and a strong presence in regional competitions.
Cricket enjoys a passionate following in New Plymouth, with various clubs and leagues fostering local talent.
Netball is widely played among women and girls in New Plymouth, with multiple teams and competitions.
Football has been growing in popularity, with several clubs catering to different age groups and skill levels.
With its stunning coastline, surfing is a popular recreational activity in New Plymouth, attracting both locals and tourists.
Swimming is a favored sport in New Plymouth, with public pools and natural beaches facilitating both casual and competitive swimming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Plymouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in New Plymouth offer diverse vegetarian and vegan menu items, and are generally accommodating to these dietary preferences. Options range from plant-based burgers to innovative vegan-friendly dishes prepared with locally-sourced produce.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find that a significant number of eateries in New Plymouth provide gluten-free alternatives, including gluten-free pizzas, pasta dishes, and baked goods. Awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivities is fairly high in the city's culinary scene, ensuring a variety of safe dining choices.