New Plymouth

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New Plymouth

New Plymouth is a significant city in Taranaki, situated on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It derived its name from the English city of Plymouth, as the initial settlers were English migrants. Among the more than 60 districts in the country, it ranks as the 10th largest district.

New Plymouth functions as a hub for various economic activities, including dairy farming. Additionally, it serves as a financial center and is home to TSB Bank, the largest non-government bank in New Zealand.

For vacationers in New Zealand, New Plymouth is worth a visit. It is a vibrant and contemporary city, renowned for its pleasant climate, art galleries, beautiful parks, and exquisite dining options, making it a great destination for families. The presence of Mount Taranaki Maunga adds to the city's allure, offering stunning and dramatic scenery.

Visitors can explore the Puke Ariki collection, an innovative museum, heritage center, and library showcasing local history and artifacts, at the New Plymouth waterfront. Another option is to relax and appreciate nature at Pukekura Park, which features a free zoo and hosts the TSB Festival of Lights.

New Plymouth offers a plethora of exciting activities for travelers from around the world. So, why wait? Start planning your vacation in New Plymouth today!

Get to Know New Plymouth

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for New Plymouth

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around New Plymouth

A guide to New Plymouth's local transportation

On Foot

Bus

Rideshare

Rent a Car

Many locals in New Plymouth choose to walk as their primary mode of transportation for school, work, meetings, sports matches, and more. Tourists can also enjoy walking to various nearby places while on vacation in New Plymouth. Walking is not only enjoyable and environmentally friendly, but it also helps reduce traffic congestion. Another option for getting around New Plymouth is cycling, with bicycle rentals available for tourists.

Practical Tips for New Plymouth

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the must-see cultural events or traditions in New Plymouth?

New Plymouth hosts various festivals, but one of the must-see events is the TSB Festival of Lights at Pukekura Park. This summer attraction and cultural event attracts over 125,000 people annually. Sponsored by TSB bank, the festival is free for everyone to join. Held from mid-December to the end of January, it offers a program of events for all ages, from day to night. In 2021, the festival won the Best Local Government and NZ's Favorite Event Awards. Apart from the Festival of Lights, there are many other festivals organized in New Plymouth.

How can I spend a day in New Plymouth?

Start your morning with breakfast at Ozone Coffee Roaster on King Street and try their Reuben sandwich. Then, explore the natural wonders of Pukekura Park, including a lake, waterfall, and botanical gardens. At midday, visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery to immerse yourself in arts and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to have lunch at State Pasta and try their chicken ravioli.

Afterward, take a stroll along the Coastal Walkway and enjoy the scenic ocean views. For adventure seekers, climb Paritutu Rock for a breathtaking bird's eye view. End your day with a delicious dinner at Social Kitchen.

When is the best time to visit New Plymouth?

The best months to visit New Plymouth are from January to May and October to December. During these months, the weather in the city is pleasant. If you plan to swim, the ideal time to visit is from January to April and December.

Where is the best area to stay overnight in New Plymouth?

The best areas to stay in New Plymouth are near Pukekura Park. There are several hotels in this area, such as Pukekura Motor Lodge and Coronation Court Motel, which offer complete facilities and beautiful views. This area is also close to other tourist destinations, including TSB Stadium and Brooklands Zoo.

When is the best time to go on a wine tour in New Plymouth?

The best time to go on a wine tour in New Plymouth is from February to April. In February, you can experience the Marlborough Food and Wine Festival, the oldest wine festival in New Zealand. March and April are the harvesting months for the wine industry, providing the perfect opportunity to explore the vineyards and have an unforgettable wine tasting experience.