Things To Do
in Stratford
Stratford is a charming town located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. Known for its unique Shakespearean theme, the town features streets named after characters from Shakespeare's plays. The breathtaking scenery of Mount Taranaki provides a picturesque backdrop to the town.
Visitors can explore the lush landscapes, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the friendly hospitality of the locals in this quaint New Zealand town.
- "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 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque King Edward Park. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and the tranquil atmosphere.
Visit the Taranaki Pioneer Village to learn about the region's history. Experience the historic buildings and engaging exhibits.
Relax with a picnic dinner in the park as the sun sets. It's a great way to unwind after a day of exploration.
Begin with a visit to the Stratford Arts Centre. Explore local art exhibitions and appreciate the creativity of local artists.
Attend a workshop or art class to try your hand at some creative skills. It's a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring New Zealand cuisine. Reflect on the vibrant art scene you experienced throughout the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including views of Mount Taranaki.
- Rich cultural history, with a vibrant arts scene.
- Family-friendly environment with good schools and parks.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Some amenities and services may be lacking compared to bigger urban areas.
- Public transport options are limited.
- Weather can be unpredictable, often with heavy rainfall.
- Distance from larger cities can be a drawback for those seeking more urban conveniences.
Best Activities in Stratford
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning trails with beautiful landscapes, lush forests, and stunning views of Mount Taranaki. Various trails cater to different skill levels.
Enjoy a serene kayaking experience on the Stratford River. Paddle through picturesque scenery and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Take a scenic drive up to the Stratford Mountain House for breathtaking views of the region. It's a great spot for picnicking and photography.
Ride along the iconic Forgotten World Highway which offers stunning vistas, historical sites, and a great adventure for cycling enthusiasts.
If visiting in spring, enjoy beautiful gardens and landscapes at the Taranaki Garden Festival, showcasing local horticulturalists' work.
Try your hand at fishing in local lakes such as Lake Ratapiko or Lake Mangamahoe. It's perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Engage in stargazing activities at the Stratford Observatory. Participate in workshops and learn more about the cosmos with guided tours.
Places to Visit in Stratford
Visit one of these nice places.
The Pātea River offers stunning views with a backdrop of lush greenery and the opportunity to photograph the tranquil waters along with reflections of the surrounding landscape.
Offering panoramic views of the Taranaki coastline and the surrounding rural landscape, this lookout is perfect for capturing breathtaking sunsets.
Located on the slopes of Mount Taranaki, this location provides spectacular views of the mountain and the chance to photograph unique alpine scenery.
Not just a museum, but also a stunning location for photography, with beautiful gardens and interesting displays that blend well with the natural surroundings.
With historic buildings set against a natural backdrop, this village provides opportunities for unique and picturesque photography.
A great spot for capturing views of the surrounding farmland and the majestic Mount Taranaki in the distance.
This beautiful garden offers vibrant flora and the chance to photograph colorful butterflies in a serene setting.
Food in Stratford
Stratford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in succulent pork belly slow-cooked to perfection, often served with apple compote and a side of seasonal vegetables. Head to The Orangery or Novotel New Plymouth Taranaki to experience this culinary delight.
Must-Try!
Don't miss out on trying the iconic New Zealand treat, Hokey Pokey ice cream. Creamy vanilla ice cream swirled with crunchy honeycomb toffee pieces can be savored at Nice. Hotel Stratford offers a delectable version as well.
Delight in the freshness of green-lipped mussels, a local delicacy. Enjoy them steamed with white wine and garlic at The Orangery or The Mountain House.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Stratford Village Market, held on the first Sunday of every month. Sample a wide array of artisanal food products, fresh produce, and homemade treats, showcasing the best of Taranaki's local food scene.
Don't miss Food Truck Fridays in the town center, where you can relish an assortment of international street food offerings, from gourmet burgers to mouthwatering tacos, prepared by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stratford is influenced by Maori culture, so it's important to learn about local customs and protocols. Show respect by greeting with 'Kia ora' and being aware of significant sites and their meanings.
New Zealanders value politeness and informal communication. Use 'please' and 'thank you' often, and be approachable and friendly in conversations.
Kiwis have a strong connection to nature. Be mindful of your surroundings, adhere to local conservation practices, and participate in keeping public spaces clean and litter-free.
Safety
Tipping in Stratford
Ensure a smooth experience
In Stratford, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice. New Zealand culture generally does not include tipping as part of the service industry, and workers in hospitality and restaurants are usually paid a living wage. However, customers may occasionally leave a small tip for exceptional service, but it is not expected.
Payment methods in Stratford are diverse, with most establishments accepting cash, debit, and credit cards. Contactless payment options are also widely used. The New Zealand currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), and prices in Stratford reflect typical costs found throughout the country.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From December to February, Stratford experiences warm weather with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). It's a great time for outdoor activities, including hiking in nearby Mount Taranaki National Park, attending local festivals, and enjoying the vibrant gardens in the area.
March to May brings cooler temperatures averaging between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). This season showcases beautiful autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy wine tours, art exhibitions, and the scenic beauty of the region as the leaves change colors.
June to August sees cooler temperatures, typically from 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F). Winter is ideal for those interested in snow sports at Mount Taranaki and enjoying cozy indoor activities, such as visiting local cafes and art galleries.
September to November marks the spring season with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F). This is a lovely time to witness blooming flowers and is perfect for gardening enthusiasts. It’s also a great period for tramping and exploring the natural beauty as the region comes back to life.
Stratford at Night
Hiking in Stratford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning park featuring a diverse range of landscapes, hiking trails, and the iconic Mount Taranaki. Various tracks cater to different skill levels.
A scenic circuit that offers breathtaking views of Mount Taranaki and lush forests. It includes varied terrain and is suitable for more experienced hikers.
An easy hike leading to beautiful waterfalls. It's perfect for families and those looking for a short walk with rewarding views.
A well-maintained trail that leads to Dawson Falls, showcasing the natural beauty of Taranaki. Ideal for a relaxing day hike.
A moderate difficulty trail offering a variety of landscapes and the opportunity to see local wildlife along the way.
Aiports
How to reach Stratford by plane.
Located in Napier, about 150 km from Stratford, this airport provides regional and national flights.
Situated approximately 40 km from Stratford, this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest international airport.
About 180 km from Stratford, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 230 km from Stratford, this airport primarily offers domestic flights but has connections to international services.
About 350 km from Stratford, this is New Zealand's largest and busiest international airport, serving flights to various global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Stratford, comprising a significant portion of the local population.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, representing a notable demographic in Stratford.
A growing and vibrant demographic group in Stratford, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
A smaller but increasing demographic group in Stratford, inclusive of various nationalities.
A diverse and often less represented demographic group contributing to the multicultural makeup of Stratford.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in Stratford, with numerous clubs and local competitions. The town has a strong rugby culture and is known for producing talented players.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Stratford, with many local teams participating in various leagues. The sport is played during the summer months and has a rich history in the region.
Netball is widely played in Stratford, especially among women and girls. The town hosts various netball events and competitions throughout the year.
Athletics is popular in Stratford, with local clubs organizing events for all ages. The community promotes physical fitness and competitions in track and field.
Football has been growing in popularity in Stratford, with many youth teams and adult leagues. The sport fosters community engagement and participation.
Field hockey is also played in Stratford, with both men's and women's teams competing in regional competitions. The town supports the development of young hockey players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stratford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Stratford provide dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring that those with plant-based dietary preferences can relish an array of innovative and flavorful dishes. The Orangery and The Mountain House offer an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan choices, ranging from hearty mains to delectable desserts.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can delight in an assortment of gluten-free offerings at various establishments in Stratford. Nice is known for its delectable gluten-free pastries and breakfast items, while The Orangery provides an array of gluten-free options across their menu, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all patrons.