Region
Taranaki - videos, podcasts, images
Taranaki
New Zealand
Taranaki is a region located on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, and juts into the Tasman Sea, the region is half way between Auckland and Wellington. New Plymouth is the region's only city, which is about a 5 hour drive or 40 minute flight from either Auckland or Wellington.
In the Maori language, Taranaki means 'Gliding Peak'.
Mount Taranaki (where the region gets its name) or Mount Egmont, is the second highest mountain (2,518m) in the North Island. The dormant volcano peak with its spectactular views is the central icon and dominant geographical feature of the region, often covered in snow.
The deep, fertile soils and moist climate are excellent for horticulture and dairy farming.
From the mountain to beautiful surf beaches around the coast, Taranaki is a spectacular destination offering a wide range of visitor and lifestyle experiences.
A great place to live, work and enjoy
Taranaki - highlights
- Taranaki uses the promotional brand "Like no other"
- Dairy farming - the basis of Taranaki’s economy
- From dozens of small dairy factories, amalgated into one massive complex near Hawera.
- Noted for its petro-chemical and engineering industries.
- Taranaki Oil and gas fields, on and off shore - the centre of New Zealand’s oil and gas production
- Some excellent world class surfing spots - from northerly, westerly and southerly wind exposures
- Famous black sand surfing beaches and a rugged coastline.
- Rock climbing on Mt Taranaki
- Hiking
- Egmont National Park has three access roads and a number of walking tracks
- Altitude change on Mt Taranaki - forests change to shrublands, tussock, herb fields, moss fields, followed by rock surfaces that are often covered in snow
- In winter, Mount Taranaki becomes a place to ski.
- Mount Taranaki is the source of over 50 rivers and streams
- Parihaka - a Maori centre
- Airport/heliport
- Accommodation of all types
- Variety of restaurants and takeaways
- Search Bizness Impressions for site details and other options
Locations in Taranaki
- New Plymouth is the only city, a good base from which to explore the region
- Hawera - a good base to explore South Taranaki
- Stratford - the closest spot to stay for those wanting to explore the mountain
- Search Bizness Impressions for site details and other options