Taranaki
New Plymouth City in the heart of Taranaki was voted the world's most livable city. It is a scenic mix of rolling dairy country, wild surf breaks and lush native bush set beneath the shadow of a perfect cone-shaped volcano.
Head out on tranquil bush walks, or journey with a guide to Mt Taranaki’s 2518-metre snow-capped summit and marvel at the spectacular 360 degree views.
Once a trading and whaling station- and the scene of the 1860s Maori land wars- Taranaki now draws nature lovers with its coastal walkways and iron sand surf beaches. It has a thriving arts scene, country hotels, and is home to the famous annual world music festival Womad, set in one of the city's 47 breathtaking gardens.
This west coast tourist treasure boasts 200 kilometres of coastline pounded by the Tasman Sea. There is the pristine Sugar Loaf Marine Reserve and a stunning national park, Maori cave carvings at Tongaporutu, and Pukearuhe's beautiful white cliffs.