EGMONT NATIONAL PARK
Egmont National Park is an area of spectacular forests, streams and waterfalls, which is dominated by the perfect cone-shaped dormant volcano of Mount Taranaki. Covering an area of 335km2/129sqmi, it is simply breathtaking. This is one of the oldest and most easily accessible national parks in the country and can be reached along Manaia Road from Manaia, Pembroke Road from Stratford, or Egmont Road from New Plymouth, which takes visitors to the North Egmont Visitor Centre (+64-6-756 0990). The park boasts an extensive network of walking tracks, from short walks to the stunning three day Pouakai Circuit (start at the Visitor Centre). Easy walks include Kamahi Loop Track that takes walkers to the Goblin Forest, which seems almost surreal with its twisted moss covered tree trunks; you’ll think you’ve stepped onto a movie set. The walking track starts just above Stratford Mountain House on Pembroke Street. The picturesque 18m/59ft Dawson Falls can be reached along an easy walking track from Manaia Road on the south eastern side of the park (take Celia Street from Stratford and follow the signs to Dawson Falls). Be prepared as the weather can change rapidly and the mountain receives high annual rainfall, even during summer. Experienced walkers can do the 5 day Around the Mountain Circuit –a 52km/32miles loop track with breathtaking alpine scenery. Several huts throughout the park provide accommodation ($-$$) on a first come first served basis. There are also two lodges ($$) which must be booked in advance (+64-6-756 0990). During winter the cone of Mount Taranaki is covered in a thick blanket of snow and the Manganui Ski Area is open from June to September.
TAWHITI MUSEUM
401 Ohangai Road, Hawera. +64-6-278 6837. Entrance fee. $$. Open Fri-Mon 10am-4pm. Open 7 days 26 Dec-31 Jan. Jun-Aug Sundays only.
It’s not hard to see why this is regarded as the best private museum in the country. From life-size sculptures that depict incredibly realistic scenes of colonial life with a touch of humour, to mind blowing miniature landscapes that include literally thousands of greatly detailed people, villages, wakas (canoes), and ships as it re-enacts historic events. Everything is designed and made on the premises by one man, which makes the scale of some of these miniature creations even more astonishing. Take a ride on the Bush Railway ($), admire the vintage tractors and machinery in the Farmpower Hall, or grab a bite to eat from the badger themed café. A highlight is the Traders & Whalers ($$) exhibit where you sit in a log boat and drift along the river through an eerie, dark world whilst witnessing village life and raging battles along the riverbank. Place this at the top of your list when visiting Taranaki.
OPUNAKE
Population: 1,360
Distance from Hawera: 43km/27miles
The small town of Opunake has a wonderful location overlooking the ocean, and marvellous views towards Mount Taranaki. Although the town is small, it offers a number of accommodation options – including camping right on the beach – and there are several eateries and takeaway shops. Opunake is also known for its nearly two dozen colourful murals scattered throughout town, mostly along the main road, that tells of the history of the settlement. The Opunake Walkway is a popular walk that takes visitors across the cliffs for spectacular views of the rugged coastline, particularly at the Waiaua River Mouth. The Namu Pa, a Māori fortification where a famous battle took place, can also be seen from the northern end of the walkway. The 7km/4miles walkway starts at Layard Street by the scenic Opunake Lake.
EVERYBODY’S THEATRE
72 Tasman Street, Opunake. +64-27-290 2892 / +64-27-313 7494. Ticket price. $.
It’s not often that a cinema makes it onto the list of attractions (with the exception of Cinema Paradiso in Wanaka on the South Island), but this one is quite unique and deserves to be mentioned. You can’t help but to notice the cheerful facade of the historic building and once you enter, it’s like stepping back in time. The foyer is wonderfully art deco in style, and the cinema seating consists of a quirky assortment of old sofas and couches, with the odd few coffee tables (and a blanket or two to keep the chills away during winter). Makes you wish all cinemas were as homely as this one!
