Taranaki Overview

Taranaki is situated on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, half way between Auckland and Wellington.

This impressive site extends into the Tasman Sea and is dominated by the imposing Mount Taranaki, which is an enormous and impressive volcanic snow-capped, bell-shaped mountain that is also a favourite skiing resort in winter.

Mount Taranaki is a symbol for this region; this mountain has inspired numerous legends and tales. There is in fact a Maori legend that narrates how the mountain actually landed on the site.

More than 50 rivers and steams run down from the mountain and beautiful and rare flora can be found in this area.

At the base of Mount Taranaki is the spectacular Egmont National Park, with verdant rainforest sprawling over the foothills. The vegetation and landscape changes considerably as you trek higher up the mountain area.

In the lower regions you can find tall rumu and kamahi trees while as you climb higher you will spot sub-alpine undergrowth as well as alpine herb grassland with rare plants.

Black sandy surfing beaches and magnificent parks and gardens can be found around the area of New Plymouth. The parks blossom with rhododendrons and azaleas in springtime, and other private gardens can also be visited. The town of New Plymouth offers a more trendy setting complete with handsome art galleries.