The Best Things To Do In New Plymouth

I used to visit my Aunty and Uncle here when I was a kid. I had so many great memories during that time. Always out and about, they knew the best things to do in New Plymouth. So when I had the opportunity to return with the family I just had to do it.

It was then that I realised I hadn’t visited New Plymouth in over 25 years! Considering it’s only a 4 hour drive from Papamoa, it’s a little bit embarrassing. 

And what a GREAT time we had!

New Plymouth has so many activities to do and places to visit. The people we met were friendly and very helpful and in the time we had, we made sure to pack in as much as we could. 

Below are what we believe are the best things to do in New Plymouth with kids. some of these are free while others might cost a little bit here and there.

Time for the family photo, sadly this time the cloud had moved in.

Top Things to do in New Plymouth

Pukekura Park 

The park is right in the heart of the city, it’s described as a botanical wonder and you can see why. It really is the perfect place to pack a picnic, wander around and relax in one of the many parts of the park. It’s large enough too at 52 hectares (128 acres) so there is plenty of space to find your little piece of privacy or to either go for a run or a stroll. It’s one of the best things to do in New Plymouth for free.

The park consists of two lakes, the historic band rotunda and an entertainment venue, a kids playground, a fountain and waterfall, and fernery and display houses just to name a few. There is also a cricket ground and if you are lucky enough you might get to see a domestic game or an international match. It really is a great place to watch cricket due to the tiered seating.

There is a range of different tracks/walks that take you past and around native and exotic trees. Make sure you check out the picturesque Poet’s Bridge.

The Tea House by the lake in Pukekura Park. Great spot to great a bite.

You can get a great view of Mt Taranaki on a clear day and the best spot of this is at the teahouse by the pond.

If you are fortunate to be around when local or international acts visit New Plymouth then hopefully they perform at the Bowl of Brooklands. The bowl is a naturally shaped amphitheater set on the edge of a lake. It’s a spectacular setting especially as the stage reflects across the lake. 

If you are keen to learn more about the park then you could take a guided walk or a guided buggy tour. A great way to learn the history as well as the natural wonders of the park. The walks are very cheap at $5 for adults and $2 for kids. 

This is where the Festival of Lights is held and where you will find the Brooklands Zoo.

Pukekura Park’s Red bridge.

Brooklands Zoo

First opened in 1965 this is a great spot for the family. We spent the afternoon here exploring and looking at a diverse range of mammals, reptiles, birds, and farm animals at Brookland Zoo. Some of our kid’s favourites were the Meerkats, Capuchin monkeys, Bolivian squirrel monkeys, and the Alpacas.

Twice a day the informative zookeepers host talks, sharing stories and amazing facts about the animals and Brookland Zoo.

You can bring in your own food and there is plenty of space for a picnic while kids either explore the zoo or play on the playground. There is the Wonky Cone if you are looking for ice cream or freshly brewed coffee.

Brooklands Zoo, plenty of space for the kids to run around after they have looked at the animals.

Paritutu Rock climb 

I first remember climbing this rock as a 13-year-old kid with my uncle and yep I crapped myself as I do have a slight fear of heights. 

Nestled between Back Beach and Ngamotu Beach stands Paritutu Rock at 156m. Yes, the views of the coastline and the seven Sugar Loaf Islands, from the top on a spectacular day are breathtaking.

As you turn around you’ll also see Mt Taranaki in all its glory, downtown New Plymouth, and Taranaki Port. If it is a clear day there is a chance you might just see Mt Ruapehu in the distance. 

Paritutu Rock and Back Beack in the foreground.

To get there it’s a short drive from downtown New Plymouth or you can walk from the Coastal Walkway. 

The climb itself is around 15min which 100m is pretty much vertical and it certainly is more than just a casual climb.

At the start, there are wooden stairs to set you on your way but it changes quickly and you will need to make sure you have both hands free to use the chain to help put yourself up.

It gets rocky but overall it is a pretty safe climb and the view certainly makes up for it. Again it’s one of the best things to do in New Plymouth for free.

View down the coast from the top of Paritutu Rock.

Festival of Lights

New Plymouth has a strong art and culture scene and there is always has a range of events and attractions to see.

One worth visiting is the Festival of Lights, held in Pukekara Park. This takes place from the start of December to the end of January. 

There are so many light displays for you to see and be a part of. Each display was designed, created, and sponsored by mainly New Zealand artists.

Our kids’ favourite exhibitions are the interactive displays. Check out the Hopscotch, Baseline, and Colour in the dark exhibitions. It really is a must-do when visiting New Plymouth this time of year. 

If you want to check out the lights from a different perspective then rent one of the rowboats. You can only book these on the day from the Tea House on the Lake at Pukekura Park. The cost is $15 for 25 minutes.

The Waterfall in Pukekura Park during the Festival of Lights

Puke Ariki Museum

This is a wonderful Museum to visit, the staff here are friendly and helpful. While it’s not a huge museum it’s packed with plenty of interactive exhibitions to keep the kids entertained.

You are welcomed by a giant shark model hanging from the roof. 

Puke Ariki is set out into different areas. We were fascinated with the history section, learning about Mount Taranaki as well as the cultural aspects (there are plenty of Māori artifacts to see). 

Puke Ariki Museum entry

It also displays the European migration who arrived from the South of England, this is  how New Plymouth got its name.

Our boys certainly loved the wildlife area, it’s what they are into. Again there are a few interactive displays that helped them learn more about the animals they were interested in.

Anytime we visit a museum our kids love the treasure hunts (if offered) and this place is no exception. Our boys charged around the place searching for the hidden objects. Once complete they returned their sheet to the front desk for their reward. 

The Coastal Walkway

This is one of the best things to do in New Zealand and you can see why it’s so popular. The Coastal Walkway stretches 13.2km’s from Port Taranaki to Bell Block Beach.

While you can walk, skate, run it, we recommend the best way is the cycle. If you don’t have a bike you can easily rent one. Make sure you rent a bike for the whole day, this way you don’t need to rush and can just enjoy the moment. 

Coastal Walkway looking towards Sugar Islands

Places to rent bikes:

Chaddy’s Charters 

Cycle Inn

The walkway itself is paved so it is a smooth and enjoyable ride for everyone. There are a couple of small slopes but nothing much to worry about. 

Things you will see along the way included Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, Len Lye Wind Wand (this sways in the wind) in fact it was designed by the renowned New Zealand artist Len Lye, great beaches including Ngamotu Beach, East End Beach, and Fitzroy beach, estuaries, coastal cliffs, the coastal views, and farmland.

Len Lye Wind Wand, this sways in the wind.

If you are looking for a playground check out Kawaroa Park it has one of the best playgrounds in New Plymouth. 

If you start at the Port you will most likely end at Hickford Park if you cycle the whole way. At Hickford Park you will find the Taranaki Cycle Park this includes a 1.75km closed road circuit and a junior mini road circuit, with traffic lights, roundabouts, a pump track, and a learners pad.

You can also have a go on the 333 metre velodrome.

The Coastal Walkway is a must for everyone either walking, running or biking.

Other Walkways To Check Out

Huatoki Walkway 

Huatoki Walkway is an easy 3.1km stroll along the Huatoki stream. Along the way, you will come across cultural places of interest which here clear signs with explanations. An old flour mill site and the sculpture (Halamoana) were created by Filipe Tohi. 

The walk starts off the Coastal Walkway near the Wind Wand and finishes in Vogeltown. 

Te Henui Walkway 

This walk follows Te Henui River from East End Reserve to Cumberland Street in Merrilands. The walk itself stretches 9.5 km and is for all levels of fitness. While we didn’t walk the whole thing we found the part we walked very peaceful and relaxing, especially early morning with a coffee in your hand. 

We saw a few runners, people enjoying the trail on their bikes along with a couple of dog walkers. It really is a nice way to start the day or escape the Coastal Walkway and enjoy the views and scenes of the Te Henui Walkway.

Check Out A Cafe 

We were only here for a few days so checking out all the cafes in New Plymouth is impossible however the ones we did check out we loved. Checking out cafes is one of the best things to do in New Plymouth.

Cafe Green Door

This cafe is right in the city and a very popular place. There is a large variety of vegan, vegetarian, and meat lovers options. So something for everyone. You can order from the menu and grab something from the cabinet. 

The coffee here is great but if hot drinks are not what you are after then there is a range of smoothies including protein smoothies, juices, milkshakes, just to name a few. Kids have their own menu too, our boys loved the organic cacao crepes.  

Plenty of outside and inside seating at the Green Door Cafe

Birdie

Located in the CBD and only a short walk from Puke Ariki. The staff here are super friendly, 

The cabinet food was well presented and it all looked delicious. Especially the salads and these really hit the spot and the portions were generous. 

There is also a selection of wraps, sandwiches, pies, scones, along with some very tasty treats. The coffee here is superb too.

Elixir Cafe

Another cafe is located in the heart of the CBD on 117 Devon Street. There is also Elixir West Cafe which is located at 281 Devon Street. Elixir offers a huge ‘all-day’ breakfast menu. What we enjoyed was the plant-based selection of the menu. 

I certainly enjoyed the Crispy Falafel and Connie loved the Buddha Bowl. These were so delicious! 

There is plenty of seating inside or out and the cabinet food offers a great choice too. Once more they serve great coffee, we won’t be disappointed. They’re also open at 7 am so if you are up and looking for an early breakfast visit Elixir Cafe.

One of the best plant based burgers I have every had, got to love Lemonwood.

Lemonwood Eatery

Look this cafe is just outside of New Plymouth in Oakura and sadly it’s closed while they build a new cafe. When it reopens I’ll be there. I would drive from Papamoa to Lemonwood Eatery in a heartbeat. The food here is so delicious. Even the boys when they first walked in said ‘WOW’ and that was just the cabinet food. 

It’s a plant-based cafe, the atmosphere and the staff are amazing. And the food is me of the best cafe food I have ever eaten. We tried a range of delights from the lemonwood burger, buckwheat spikelet stack, taco’s rancheros, and Sawyer tried the ‘I don’t want that’ (Nachos and Corn chips). 

Make sure to visit when it reopens, you won’t be disappointed.

Entrance to Lemonwood, fingers crossed they reopen soon

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge

This has become one of the top attractions in New Plymouth. Opened in 2010 Te Rewa Rewa Bridge crosses over the Waiwhakaiho River making it even more spectacular.  

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge can be visited while you are biking or walking the Coastal Walkway. There is also plenty of car parks if you just want to visit the bridge. 

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, the photo everyone tries to get, with Mount Taranaki framed in the background.

The bridge looks like either a rolling wave or the skeleton of a whale. Once you cross the bridge you see the beaches of Fitzroy and East End as well as Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park. Fitzroy beach is usually packed with surfers.

One of the most popular things to do is have a photo looking down the bridge with Mt Taranaki in the background as a frame. However, you make make sure you visit on a fine and clear day. The best time to visit is early in the morning when there are fewer people around.

Len Lye Centre and Govett-Brewster Art Gallery

You will instantly recognise Govett-Brewster Art Gallery with its curved mirrored pipe-like exterior walls. The Gallery is dedicated to contemporary art and is home to the filmmaker and sculptor Len Lye. In fact, half the museum is dedicated to Len Lye, this part is aptly named the Len Lye Centre. 

Exhibitions in the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery change so you will need to visit their website to see what is on display. The staff here are friendly and are happy to answer questions and show their knowledge. 

It is worth a visit if you have time.

The distinctive building of the Len Lye Centre and Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. Right in the middle of the city.

Mount Taranaki 

You just can’t miss this maunga (mountain) no matter where you are in this part of the country. It’s spectacular and is especially impressive on a clear day. It makes for a wonderful day trip from New Plymouth. 

The drive from New Plymouth to the Mount Taranaki and Egmont National Park Visitor Centre is around 30 minutes. This is the best place to start your walks or hikes as many trails start here.

There is a wide range of trails from easy to a multi-day trek. So it just depends on your time factor as well as the ability of your family. Just make sure you are prepared especially with good footwear.

Perfect photo of Mount Taranaki

Some of the easy trails are Kapuni Loop Track, Wilkies Pools Loop Track, and Dawson Falls Loop Track. All of these are around a one-hour round trip. 

Dawson Falls is one of the popular spots to visit if you are coming here. The water flows from the Kapuni River are into a stunning waterfall. The great news is this spot is only 30 minutes from the car park. You can also visit Dawson Falls from Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.

From here to the falls is about 10 minutes. This is also a great spot to visit Wilkies Pools too and if it’s summer too you might like to bring your togs (swimming costume).

New Plymouth to Dawson Falls Visitor Centre is around one hour.

Some of the longer day hikes for the more adventurous are the York Loop Track, Pouakai Circuit Reflective Tarn, and Mount Taranaki Summit Track. The Pouakai Circuit Reflective Tarn offers a beautiful pool and if you are lucky you might be able to see what is described as the most incredible views of Mount Taranaki.

You can book a night in the Pouakai hut which is close by but you will need to bring all your equipment. 

IMPORTANT: Pouakai Circuit Reflective Tarn starts from Mangorei Track Trailhead, not from the visitor centres.

Te Rewa Rewa and Mount Taranaki

Best Beaches To Visit

If you are looking to spend the day at the beach then New Plymouth has a couple of great spots to check out. 

Fitzroy Beach

This is probably the most popular beach, this beach is along the Coastal Walkway so if you are biking or walking this is the perfect place to stop for a swim and build a sandcastle. 

Fitzroy Surf Life Saving Club patrols the beach during the summer months and school holidays making it a safe place to swim for younger families. This is also the place to catch waves and you will see many surfers out there. 

There is plenty of space to relax, have a picnic and enjoy the day.

Looking down Fitzroy Beach, one of the best beaches for families and surfers.

East End

This beach is around 500m from Fitzroy beach and again is popular with people and Surf lifesavers patrol this beach too.

Ngamotu Beach

Located in the CBD down towards the port end of New Plymouth is a sheltered swimming area making it perfect for families. The water is calm and inviting and it’s a great place to kayak and paddleboard.

On the 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month, the Seaside Market will be there. There are around 70 stalls to explore. 

Back Beach

I used to spend time here with my cousins as they lived just down the road. I remember charging down the cliffs and onto the beach. Swimming here as a kid was one of my favourite things to do. However, you need to be careful as there are strong rips and there are no surf life-saving clubs patrolling the beach. 

This beach is black sand and a great spot for a walk or to play in the sand dunes. 

It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset especially up on the cliffs and you’ll get great views of Paritutu Rock and Sugar Loaf Islands.

Looking down the the coast from Back Beach, stunning black sand.

Final Thoughts

I can’t believe it’s taken this long for me to return to New Plymouth, I absolutely loved this place as there are so many great things to do in New Plymouth for free. 

Just to get out on the walkways, climb Paritutu Rock and visit the museums and beaches, we felt we were always active.

If you are looking for a place to spend a few days exploring, you must visit New Plymouth. We are returning as soon as we get the chance.

Inside Puke Ariki Museum