Taranaki is a region on the west coast of New Zealand’s north island, about a five- hour drive south of Auckland. It is named after the dramatic volcanic mountain that dominates its skyline, and known for its spectacular landscapes,
Set against a canvas of endless hiking tracks, pristine surf breaks, and world-class skiing, Taranaki is a region where nature and creativity are intimately entwined. Art is everywhere here. It’s in the jaw-dropping landscapes. It’s in the art trails and festivals peppered throughout the region. It’s even in the bridges and on the wind.
The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
New Plymouth, Taranaki’s main city, has huge stature in the world of contemporary art despite its humble size.
Start your adventures at the arresting Len Lye Centre and the adjoining Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.
The art of Len Lye
Len Lye was a maverick kinetic sculptor and experimental filmmaker whose work is now deeply embedded in the town’s identity.
The Wind Wand
Wander to the waterfront and take a look at his famous work, the Wind Wand, a 157-foot kinetic sculpture that changes with the weather.
Fitzroy and East End
Follow the Coastal Walkway, a promenade that links the town center to many of its beautiful parks and black sand beaches such as Fitzroy and East End.
The Te Rewa Rewa bridge
Art meets nature again at the Te Rewa Rewa bridge. This award-winning bridge spans the Waiwhakaiho River and evokes the power of an enormous wave.
The Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Reserve
No matter where you are in New Plymouth, Mount Taranaki is never far from sight, a constant reminder of how richly this region has been blessed by nature.
Make the climb to the top of Paritutu Rock, or discover a rich diversity of marine life at the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Reserve.
The festival of lights in Pukekura Park
At Pukekura Park, right in the heart of the city, light itself becomes the artist as it reflects off the lakes.
If you are visiting don’t miss the festival of lights which transforms the entire park.
The Bowl of Brooklands
In 1956, a natural amphitheater was converted into the Bowl of Brooklands which has been one of New Zealand’s finest concert venues ever since.
The Brooklands Zoo, and the picturesque “Poet’s Bridge.”
It is also home to the world-famous WOMAD festival, the Brooklands Zoo, and the picturesque “Poet’s Bridge.”
The picturesque “Poet’s Bridge.”
This bridge was named not after a local poet as the name suggests but after a racehorse whose winnings provided the funds to build it.
Puke Ariki museum
Conservation and deep respect for the past are also evident in the many museums throughout New Plymouth, such as Puke Ariki.
Explore the interactive exhibits and an ever-changing program of events that delve into the region’s history.
The Egmont National Park
No visit to Taranaki is complete without getting close to the powerful presence that stands at the heart of the entire region.
Follow Surf Highway 45 to the Egmont National Park where Mt. Taranaki reigns supreme.
Cape Egmont Lighthouse
On the westernmost point of the Taranaki coast stands Cape Egmont Lighthouse which has been protecting ships from the treacherous Tasman since 1881.
Lake Mangamahoe
Drive north to Lake Mangamahoe, a magnet for those who love hiking and riding. The series of picture-perfect surf breaks along the coast leads to the dramatic rock formations known as the Three Sisters and Elephant Rock.
Once there were four sisters, but the sea is slowly reclaiming these natural sculptures one at a time.
Conclusion
It is sometimes said, that great art picks up where nature ends. The longer you spend in Taranaki, with its spectacular scenery, powerful artistic legacy and epic outdoor adventures, the more you realize that the two are so closely linked it is sometimes impossible to tell the difference.