Taranaki
All year round there is something to see and do. In the winter you can ski on Mt. Taranaki and in the summer the beaches, streams and walking tracks are quite popular.
The best months to visit Taranaki are from December through January, February and into April. While the weather can change most days, over those months, the temperature tends to be pleasantly warm.
This is a region with a blend of natural beauty, attractions and activities and is becoming more well-known with an increasing number of visitors. It is described as 'real new Zealand' and presents a holiday destination with something for everyone including mountain adventures, surfing, spectacular scenery, internationally renound gardens, art, adventure pursuits, and events.
Major events include:
- Taranaki Rhododendron and Garden Festival (late October – November every year)
- BG International Triathlon World Cup (ITU) (November)
- TSB Bank Festival of Lights (December - February)
- Taranaki Round the Mountain Cycle Challenge (January)
- Concert series at the Bowl of Brooklands (December to March)
- World of Music Arts and Dance (WOMAD) (March)
- Taranaki Festival of the Arts (July - Biennial)
Taranaki, like the rest of New Zealand, remained undiscovered for a very long time. First the Maori made their home; there are eight Iwi settled in the region. Then came the British and colonial settlers. The mountain has observed it all.
This is a region with rich cultural history that can be explored and enjoyed when you visit. It is a significant region in historical terms. Puke Ariki, an award winning facility in New Plymouth, is a good place to start.
Mount Egmont, Taranaki