Taranaki - Where the Mountain Meets the Sea

Taranaki is often voted one of the world's best regions to visit, yet it remains relatively quiet compared to other tourist hotspots. The region bulges out into the Tasman Sea, meaning you have 180 degrees of ocean swell for surfing and a central mountain that offers incredible hiking.

For campers, the layout is perfect. You can camp in the alpine environment of Egmont National Park, stay at a beachfront holiday park along the famous Surf Highway 45, or enjoy the award-winning coastal walkway in New Plymouth.

Why Go Camping Here?

• Mount Taranaki: It looks like Mount Fuji (and was even used as a double for it in The Last Samurai). Camping near its base puts you in touch with ancient "goblin forests" of twisted trees and moss.

• Surf Highway 45: This scenic touring route hugs the coast and connects dozens of world-class surf breaks. It’s a road trip dream for anyone with a campervan and a surfboard.

• Pukekura Park: One of the finest botanical gardens in the country, famous for its Festival of Lights in summer.

• The Coastal Walkway: An award-winning 12.7km promenade in New Plymouth that lets you cycle or walk right next to the ocean waves.

Must-Do Camping Activities

• The Pouakai Crossing: Taranaki’s premier one-day hike. It takes you past the famous Pouakai Tarns, where (on a calm day) you can get the perfect reflection photo of the mountain.

• Surf at Fitzroy or Back Beach: Whether you are a pro or a beginner, Taranaki has a wave for you.

• Visit the Len Lye Centre: You can’t miss it, the building is a giant, wavy mirror that reflects the street. Inside, it’s a world of kinetic art and sculpture.

• Dawson Falls: A short walk in the national park leads to this stunning 18m waterfall.

• Three Sisters & Elephant Rock: Visit Tongaporutu at low tide to walk among these massive rock formations rising from the sand (great for sunset photography).