Autumn is the perfect time to plan your Taranaki escape.
With exciting activities for all ages, breathtaking natural landscapes bursting with autumn colour, and delicious delights, Taranaki offers a getaway like no other. Here are our top six must-dos.
1. Indulge in Easter delights:
Treat your taste buds to a delightful array of Easter goodies and mouth-watering meals. From artisanal baking, locally hand-crafted chocolates, and vibrant family-friendly restaurants and cafes, Taranaki has something to satisfy every craving.
Sink your teeth into freshly baked hot cross buns from Baked by Blanche at the Good Score Food Store, indulge in Public Kitchen’s spiced delights and award-winning custard squares at Piccolo Morso, or treat yourself to Billow Bakery’s sourdough creations.
Those with a sweet tooth can't look past the delicious flavours of Giles Chocolatier or Malva Chocolates, while Knead Donuts is home to some of the most famous donuts in Taranaki.
2. Family Fun Galore:
Taranaki is packed with whānau-friendly activities.
Explore the Stratford Bike Park on two wheels, where kids can zip around the pump track and learn about road safety at the working model-traffic lights. For the more adventurous, head to Lake Mangamahoe for thrilling mountain biking trails and panoramic views of the majestic maunga.
The brand-new Destination Kāwaroa playground is a must-visit, with water play, climbing platforms, a pump track and easy access to Kāwaroa Reef, where little explorers can discover precious rockpools and marine life in their natural habitat.
Take a nostalgic stroll at Pioneer Village, or step back in time at Tawhiti Museum where you can take a thrilling ride on the underground Traders and Whalers boat ride.
Dive into the ultimate wildlife adventure with a cruise on Chaddy's Charters around the culturally significant Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Reserve. Enjoy some friendly competition at Inglewood Mini Golf, or spend the day at The Hideaway offering a Bathurst-themed mini putt, luge, and Holden Car Museum.
3. Enjoy Autumn colour at glorious gardens and parks
Taranaki boasts spectacular parks, gardens, and tracks and trails that burst to life with autumn colour. Wander through the magical woodlands of Te Popo Gardens, or follow the vibrant trails at Hollard Gardens, home to one of the best playgrounds in South Taranaki.
No trip to Taranaki is complete without a visit to Pukeiti, a sprawling native rainforest and rhododendron paradise on the slopes of Taranaki Maunga with a kids’ treehouse trail, onsite café, and plenty of walking trails to explore.
Pack a picnic and relax at Tūpare or Lucy’s Gully, or find hidden waterfalls and lush greenery at Pukekura Park. If you’re up for a nighttime adventure, visit Lake Rotokare, a 230-hectare predator free sanctuary where you can list for kiwi calls after dark.
4. Arts and Culture
Immerse yourself in vibrant arts and culture with a visit to one of the many renowned museums or art galleries.
Explore the captivating exhibits at Aotea Utanganui Museum of South Taranaki or check out the Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum (TATAM) for an interactive array of hands-on exhibits and items from the past, bound to entertain the whole family for hours.
Head to Puke Ariki for stories of our people and past, followed by the contemporary exhibitions at the iconic Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre, where you can experience the energy of Len Lye’s kinetic displays. Don't forget to pick up a copy of Ziggle!, a bumper art activity book brimming with ideas for the kids.
5. For the adults
Need some me time? Drift into relaxation at the Flotation Sanctuary or get the creativity flowing with an evening at Pinot and Picasso. Discover the art of gin distilling on a Juno Gin Tasting and Distillery Tour, unwind over a delicious meal and craft beverage at Shining Peak Brewery, or enjoy a wine tasting and light bites at Known Unknown House Wine Bar. Craft beer lovers should head to the Taranaki Beer Festival (16 – 17 May), with over 25 brewers from across Aotearoa.
Enjoy a spot of retail therapy all around Taranaki Maunga. Find beautiful boutique homewares at Object Design Store, Bianca Lorene, Home Love Mette K, or Cottage Lane. Head to Eltham for thrift-shopping galore with an eclectic array of pre-loved and vintage stores, or pick up an artsy keepsake at Kina Nz Design + Art Space, Percy’s Place, The Collaboration, or Peta M.
6. Coastal Arts Trail
Looking for a unique Easter road trip? Art lovers, creatives, and inspiration seekers will love the Coastal Arts Trail. This self-drive journey follows the pulse of creativity between Taranaki, Whanganui, and Manawatu, with vibrant galleries, open art studios, and must-see creative attractions. The trail offers a glimpse into the lives and inspiration of artists who call these regions home, making for a truly immersive artistic experience. It's also an opportunity to purchase unique and affordable art treasures and curate your home with.