Taranaki
Mount Taranaki is the region’s piece de résistance. Resembling Mount Fuji in its symmetrical perfection, this dormant volcano sores to 2518 metres, has its own ski field and is a climber’s favourite. Around the wild coast, the surf Highway 45, follows black sand shores and leads to countless surf breaks. Local folk love gardening in the rich volcanic soil, so there are some 17 gardens of national and regional significance. Internationally renowned Pukeiti, on the mountain’s lower slopes has some 10,000 varieties of rhododendron alone and is set in 360 hectares of native forest. Once a hot bed of Maori resistance to colonial rule, Parihaka Pa and its prophets of peace, Te Whiti and Tohu, were a scene of peaceful resistance. Rich in oil exploration and dairy farming, by contrast the art community thrives with the country’s leading contemporary art gallery, the Govett Brewster, at its centre.
Highlights:
· The Wind Wand and New Plymouth’s 7km Coastal Walkway
· The Govett-Brewster Gallery for modern art and the Puke Ariki Museum
· Wander through Pukekura Park with the world’s prettiest cricket pitch
· Take an outdoor concert at the Bowl of Brooklands
· Mount Taranaki, be guided up and around this iconic mountain
· Dam-dropping – all in the name!
· Pukeiti Rhododendron Gardens
· to surf along Surf Highway 45 at the seaside village of Oakura
· Drive along the Forgotten World Highway to Lake Taupo and Tongariro
