We headed back to New Plymouth for Easter. This has been our home for the last couple of years and we have become very fond of this friendly town. We have always found there is so much to do in and around the town. Mount Taranaki (formerly known as Mt Egmont) is New Zealands second highest peak in the North Island towering over New Plymouth at 2518m. There are some spectacular walks and views from the Maunga (mountain).
Driving into New Plymouth via the coastal road is always a pleasure with views of Back Beach, Paratutu Rock, the Sugar Loaf Islands and Port Taranaki, the only deep water port on the West Coast of New Zealand.
New Plymouth had a 12.7 km coastal walkway constructed in 2003, stretching all the way along the sea front, great for walkers, bikers, rollerbladers and scooters. It’s such a great walk which can be done in small sections also and boasts hill top views, beaches, bridges, grassland, rivers, farmland, a golf club, a lake and the windwand, amongst the bustling vibe of a cafe or 2 along the way. On a clear day there will be multiple views of Mount Taranaki.
The port area has a long history and is an interesting place to visit. There are tours out to the seal colonies at the SugarLoaf Islands and also fishing charters. There are places to hire bikes, kayaks and paddleboards and a couple of different options for lunch or coffee. The big breakwater is a great place to go and explore on foot or bike too.
New Plymouth CBD hosts a whole range of cafes, restaurants and shops with the library and Puke Ariki Museum in the main square. As you mosey around town you will be impressed with the many street art covered walls.
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