Experience our famous maunga to moana lifestyle
Taranaki offers a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, vibrant arts and culture, sun-drenched beaches, world-class events, unforgettable walks and hikes, and an award-winning dining scene.
At the heart of it all is Taranaki Maunga – our ancestral mountain, now recognised as a living entity with legal personhood status. This historic recognition acknowledges the deep cultural and spiritual connection between the eight iwi of Taranaki and the maunga, ensuring its protection and care for future generations.
As part of this recognition, Taranaki Maunga and its surrounding peaks will be known as Te Kāhui Tupua, making it the third geographic feature in Aotearoa New Zealand to receive this status, following Te Urewera and the Whanganui River.
Visitors can still explore the trails of Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki National Park, but this designation reinforces the importance of respecting the mountain's natural and cultural significance while appreciating its beauty.
Taranaki is a year-round holiday destination and a sought-after place to live and work—where the deep connection between maunga and moana creates an experience like no other.
Planning a trip to Taranaki?
Highlights and Itinerary Ideas in Taranaki
Taranaki Winter Guide
Discover winter magic in Taranaki. From the snow-capped peak of Taranaki Maunga to rich cultural experiences, captivating art festivals and events, and cosy retreats.
Nature's Playground
From mountain peaks to black sand beaches – Taranaki is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wander the magical Goblin Forest, cross the breath-taking Manganui Gorge Bridge, or capture the iconic mirror-like reflection at Pouākai Tarn. Take a look at our natural playground.
Flavours of Taranaki
Treat your taste buds to a delightful array of delicious goodies and mouth-watering meals. From artisanal baking, to locally roasted coffee, and decadent restaurants or family-friendly cafes, Taranaki has something to satisfy every craving.
Arts and Culture Uncovered
Creativity flows in Taranaki. Discover contemporary art, see narratives unfold in our vibrant street art, explore our rich history in our museums, and immerse yourself in one of our many art galleries. Uncover our Arts and Culture scene.
Top 5 hikes in Taranaki
Taranaki is a paradise for hikers, offering a mix of dramatic mountain landscapes to lush rainforests, and coastal vistas that will take your breath away. Explore some of our favourite tracks and trails.
Taranaki Merchandise
Check out our new Taranaki - Like no other-branded merchandise.
T-shirts, hoodies, crews, bucket hats, kidswear, and jibbitz charms for Crocs are available now.
Rainy Days
Plan a day like no other with our list of the best things to do in Taranaki on a rainy day.
Free and affordable family fun in Taranaki
Who doesn’t have a tight budget these days, am I right?!
Here’s a list of all the fun free (or affordable) activities to do with kids around Taranaki.
Coastal Arts Trail
Explore the art galleries, museums, and open studios of Taranaki, Whanganui and Manawatū through the Coastal Arts Trail – an easy, self-driving art-lovers’ tour between the regions.
Family Fun
Our photogenic region is crammed with unique experiences, green spaces, and natural wonders. Whether you’re travelling with big kids or little ones, you’ll find plenty to do.
Liardet Street Projects
Liardet Street Projects is a must-do ‘hidden secret’ for anyone visiting Taranaki.
Three Days in Taranaki
Vibrant, contemporary, and buzzing with copious things to do, see, eat, and experience, Taranaki is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, families, and arts- and culture-lovers.
Taranaki is humming!
Pouākai Crossing
The Pouākai Crossing is the premier one-day walk in Te Papa-Kura o Taranaki National Park that takes in the highlights of the longer two to three day Pouākai Circuit.
Exploring the Forgotten World
New Zealand’s oldest heritage trail is 155kms long. Starting in either Stratford or Taumarunui it follows ancient Māori trade routes and pioneering farm tracks, through ambitious historic settlements, untamed native bush and stunning natural scenery.
Taranaki Maunga Top Views
Taranaki Maunga is paved with hundred of kilometres of walking tracks – both short and long. But which ones lead to the best views?
Surf Highway 45 - Six Foot and Glassy
Whether you’re a seasoned wave-hunter or just getting started, Taranaki’s Surf Highway 45 will have a wave waiting for you.
Spotlight on Stratford
Lying beneath the eastern slopes of Taranaki Maunga is the Shakespearean-themed town of Stratford.
The gateway to both the maunga and the Forgotten World Highway has a lot to offer.
Spotlight on South Taranaki
With its expansive landscapes, South Taranaki is brimming with unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Beyond its stunning beaches and world-class surf breaks, you'll find rich history, vibrant culture, welcoming cafés, and a thriving arts community.
Getting here
Whether you're looking for a scenic road trip or an easy flight, Taranaki is just far enough away.
Download Taranaki Brochures
Discover the best of everything to see, do, eat, and experience in Taranaki with our downloadable guidebooks.
Download them here or find them at i-SITE Visitor Infomation Centres in New Plymouth, Stratford and Hāwera or by contacting us.
Visitor Story
Something here for everyone.
We've got so much on offer, all year round.
Abundant in nature and history, and exploding with culture, arts, dining and hospitality - take a look at our Visitor Story.