Why New Plymouth, Taranaki?

Home to more than 117,000 people, Taranaki is located halfway between Auckland and Wellington, on the western coast of the North Island, and is easily accessed by air using Air New Zealand’s domestic service and by road via major state highways.

Taranaki is the sunniest region in New Zealand (recording the most sunshine hours in 2022 and 2021) and a year-round holiday destination and sought-after place to live and work. The generous sunshine hours and rich rainfall make it a lush and fertile place for outdoor activities.
With strong rural farming, forestry, fishing and oil and gas industries, Taranaki has a solid economy and the highest GDP per capita in New Zealand.

Top things to do

  • Accommodation

    New Plymouth boasts over 100 accommodation providers within 5km of the city centre, so you are sure to find something to fit your style and budget.

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  • Cafés and Restaurants

    New Plymouth is almost as well known for its cafés as it is for its surfing. We have over 20 cafés in our CBD and world class restaurants. Find out more about where to eat and drink in New Plymouth.

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  • Coastal Walkway

    The award-winning Coastal Walkway is a 12.7km path ideal for walking, running, cycling or skating, or simply enjoying the view of the dramatic west coast. It takes in East End Beach, Fitzroy Beach and the iconic Te Rewa Rewa Bridge.

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  • Govett-Brewster Art Gallery

    The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is Aotearoa New Zealand’s museum of contemporary art and the global home of Len Lye’s art and ideas. A place to find new ways of looking at the world. Open 7 days 10am - 5pm

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  • Music loving region

    We are the proud hosts of WOMAD in New Zealand. Hosted at our very own Bowl of Brooklands the festival is a huge success and well loved by locals.

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  • A tourist destination

    Tourism has boomed since we were named the 2nd best region in the world by Lonely Planet. We're an attractive destination and domestic travellers are always keen for an 'excuse' to visit Taranaki.

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Getting here

All of our venues are located close to the New Plymouth CBD and accommodation providers. You can access them by foot, taxi, car or bus.

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