New Plymouth - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to New Plymouth

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in New Plymouth, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to New Plymouth and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around New Plymouth, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about New Plymouth for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to New Plymouth

New Plymouth is a coastal city located on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. It is the largest city in the Taranaki region and has a population of around 74,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful coastline, parks, gardens, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Some of the popular attractions in New Plymouth include Pukekura Park, the Len Lye Centre, the Coastal Walkway, and the Puke Ariki Museum. Additionally, the city is a great base for exploring the Taranaki region, which is home to stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and skiing.

What to visit in New Plymouth

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in New Plymouth, New Zealand, along with some information: 1. Pukekura Park - Pukekura Park is a popular public park located in central New Plymouth. It is one of the main attractions of the region, offering an amazing display of plants, trees, gardens, and wildlife. The park is home to several heritage features, including the Fernery, the Tea House, and the Hatchery. Visitors can also check out the park's annual festival, which usually takes place in December and January.
2. Mount Taranaki - Mount Taranaki is an impressive stratovolcano located in the Egmont National Park of Taranaki, New Zealand. The mountain's perfectly symmetrical cone shape and its location near the coast make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the mountain through various trails, including the popular Pouakai Circuit and the fan-favorite summit climb.
3. Len Lye Centre - The Len Lye Centre is an incredible art museum located in downtown New Plymouth. The museum features a collection of kinetic sculptures, installations, and films created by artist Len Lye. The building is also a work of art, with a unique façade made of stainless steel panels that move and reflect the sunlight.
4. Coastal Walkway - The Coastal Walkway is a scenic pathway that runs along the coast of New Plymouth, offering visitors breathtaking views of the sea and the city. The pathway is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, and covers more than 13 km. There are several attractions along the way, including the Wind Wand, the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, and the Waiwhakaiho River Mouth.
5. TSB Festival of Lights - The TSB Festival of Lights is an annual light festival that takes place in New Plymouth's Pukekura Park during December and January. The festival features a stunning display of light installations, live music performances, food stalls, and much more. Visitors can explore the park and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of the event.
These are just a few of the many unique and beautiful tourist attractions in New Plymouth, New Zealand, that travelers can see and experience.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in New Plymouth.

When to go on holiday to New Plymouth

The best time to go on holiday to New Plymouth, New Zealand is during the months of December to February (summer season), when the weather is warm and sunny with average temperatures ranging from 17°C-24°C (62°F-75°F). This is also the busiest time of the year with more crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, the months of March to May and September to November (spring and autumn seasons) can be great options. The temperatures are cooler, ranging from 10°C-20°C (50°F-68°F), but still pleasant enough for outdoor activities. June to August is winter season in New Plymouth and can be rainy and chilly with temperatures ranging from 7°C-14°C (45°F-57°F), but this is also a great time for winter activities like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to New Plymouth

To get to New Plymouth, here are some options: 1. By Air: New Plymouth Airport has daily flights to and from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. You can check the schedules and book your tickets with Air New Zealand or other airlines.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that offer services to New Plymouth from various destinations in North Island, including Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Palmerston North. Intercity and Nakedbus are some of the popular bus operators.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from the major rental companies available at the airports or in the city centre. The journey from Auckland takes around 4.5 hours, while Wellington is approximately a 5-hour drive away.
I hope this helps! Let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit New Plymouth, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in New Plymouth

Sure, here are some typical foods of New Plymouth and their descriptions: 1. Rewena Bread - This is a traditional Maori potato bread that is fermented using a sourdough starter. It has a slightly tangy flavor and a dense texture.
2. Seafood Chowder - New Plymouth is known for its fresh seafood, and a hearty seafood chowder is a popular dish. It typically includes fish, mussels, and other shellfish in a creamy broth.
3. Pavlova - A staple dessert in New Zealand, pavlova is a meringue-based cake that is topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It has a crispy exterior and a soft, marshmallow-like center.
4. Meat Pies - This is a common snack or lunch option in New Zealand, and New Plymouth is no exception. Meat pies are filled with minced meat, gravy, and vegetables, and are often served with tomato sauce.
5. Hangi - This is a traditional Maori cooking method that involves cooking food in an underground oven. Hangi dishes can include pork, chicken, kumara (sweet potato), and other vegetables. 6. Kiwi Burger - A classic New Zealand twist on a burger, the Kiwi Burger features a beef patty topped with beetroot, a fried egg, and pineapple. 7. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream - This iconic New Zealand ice cream flavor features small pieces of honeycomb toffee mixed into vanilla ice cream. It's sweet and crunchy. These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods you can find in New Plymouth!
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is New Plymouth an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in New Zealand, New Plymouth is considered moderately expensive for tourists. However, it offers a variety of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hostels, as well as luxury hotels. Dining, entertainment, and attractions are also available for various budgets. As with any destination, costs depend on individual preferences and choices. It's best to research and plan your trip in advance to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in New Plymouth

In New Plymouth, the best areas to find accommodation to visit are the central city area, Fitzroy, and the coastal suburb of Oakura. The central city area is the most convenient for accessing the many museums, galleries, and restaurants in the city center. Fitzroy is a popular beachside suburb, with great options for water sports, fishing, and relaxing on the beach. Oakura is a nature-lover's paradise, with stunning scenery, great surf beaches, and bush walks.
You can check hotel prices at New Plymouth here:
Booking.com

Is New Plymouth a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, New Plymouth is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any city, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips: 1. Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
2. Keep your valuables out of sight and secure your belongings at all times.
3. Be mindful of traffic, as driving is on the left side of the road in New Zealand.
4. Follow any safety instructions given by local authorities.
5. Consider utilizing a reputable tour operator for activities and excursions.
Overall, New Plymouth is a welcoming city and locals are often happy to assist visitors with any questions or concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting New Plymouth.

What type of travelers will enjoy New Plymouth the most?

New Plymouth in New Zealand can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages and interests. It is a great destination for families with its beautiful parks and gardens, beaches, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking trails. Young people will also enjoy the city's nightlife, music festivals, and art scene.
Couples can savor the romantic sunsets and enjoy a host of activities from beaches, hot pools, scenic flights and garden walks which make the place truly special. The city also has a vibrant food and wine scene with many dining options, wineries and brewery tours.
Overall, New Plymouth offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural activities and outdoor adventure and is sure to cater to the interests of a diverse range of travelers.

How to get around New Plymouth

There are several options for transportation in New Plymouth: 1. Bus - The Citylink bus system operates in New Plymouth, and it's a cost-effective way to get around the city.
2. Taxi - Taxis are readily available in New Plymouth, but they can be quite expensive.
3. Rental Car - Renting a car is a great option if you want the freedom to explore the surrounding areas.
4. Bicycle - New Plymouth has a great network of cycle lanes and tracks, which makes cycling a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
5. Walking - Many of the attractions in New Plymouth are within walking distance of each other, so walking is a great way to explore the city.

What to see around New Plymouth

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from New Plymouth in New Zealand: 1. Mount Taranaki: This is an active volcano and a popular attraction for hikers and adventure seekers. You can go for a day hike to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding areas.
2. Egmont National Park: This is a beautiful national park located near Mount Taranaki. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and bird watching.
3. Pukekura Park: It is a public park located in the center of New Plymouth and is popular for its stunning gardens and lakes.
4. Coastal Walkway: This is a beautiful coastal path that extends for 12.7 km along the New Plymouth coastline. It offers stunning views of the ocean and Mount Taranaki.
5. The Tawhiti Museum: It is a unique and fascinating museum located near New Plymouth. It showcases the history and heritage of Taranaki and New Zealand through miniature figures and other exhibits.
6. Oakura Beach: This is a beautiful beach located about 15 minutes from New Plymouth. It is ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxing.
7. Len Lye Centre: It is a contemporary art museum in New Plymouth. It showcases the works of the renowned New Zealand artist Len Lye and organizes various exhibitions throughout the year.
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