The lush, green region on the west coast of the North Island is dominated by Mount Taranaki (previously known as Mount Egmont), a perfect cone-shaped mountain that bears an uncanny resemblance to Japan’s Mount Fuji.

The mountain is located in Egmont National Park, an easily accessible adventure zone attracting a variety of outdoor enthusiasts. The coastline is another highlight; check out the black sand beaches and rolling surf after a day’s skiing at Manganui Ski Area.

The lush landscape and surf beaches of Taranaki make this region the perfect place for a road trip. Rent a car and meander along winding river gorges and quiet highways splashed by surf. The Forgotten World Highway from Stratford to Taumarunui is the perfect back route to get to the central North Island for the next leg of your winter adventure. Surf Highway 45 is the country’s only dedicated surf route – bring your wetsuit for winter surfing on New Zealand’s most consistent breaks. The city of New Plymouth offers accommodation, eateries and galleries, with Stratford, the gateway to Mount Taranaki, just 30 minutes away.

New Plymouth

The seaside city of New Plymouth is an eclectic mix of sophistication and wild coastline. Make sure you check out Puke Ariki, an innovative museum and information centre in the city’s hub, and the Wind Wand – a 45-metre-high kinetic sculpture by renowned artist Len Lye. If you’re feeling the need to unwind, take a stroll along the seven-kilometre coastal walkway for awesome views.

Need to Know

Manganui Ski Area

Population New Plymouth district 73,500. Average July temperature New Plymouth 9.4˚C. Main centres New Plymouth, Stratford, Hawera.

Air New Plymouth Airport offers domestic flights. Road New Plymouth is 5 hours, 5 min from Wellington/Auckland. Coaches offer regular services.

Coaches and shuttles operate regionally and to the slopes. Car rentals available.

To Manganui Ski Area from: New Plymouth 45 min; Stratford 15 min drive, 25 min walk.

Online www.destination-nz.com, www.taranaki.co.nz. By phone New Plymouth +64 6 759 0897, Stratford +64 6 765 6708, Hawera +64 6 278 8599. In person New Plymouth i-SITE Visitor Centre, 65 St Aubyn Street; Stratford i-SITE Visitor Centre, Miranda Street; South Taranaki i-SITE Visitor Centre, 55 High Street, Hawera.