Search hotels in Taranaki, New Zealand

New Plymouth. What can i say about New Plymouth. Well, context first. We were there the week before Christmas (2025) and went there to see the Maori carvings. The carvings featured on an ABC podcast (Mark Fennell) and New Plymouth was on the drive back to Auckland from Wellington. The roads in and out are one lane in each direction, very New Zealand, and totally rural. Forget 100klm/hr speed limits, you'll be lucky to get to 80 on the clear stretches. We came in along the front road, on the other side of the mountain, and it was worth the drive. We saw the carvings which were interesting, badly displayed and underwhelming. But got a few tips to other attractions in the region . We were only there for the one night, but certainly have things planned for when we come back. But, the highlight of New Plymouth - Christmas at the Bowl. Yes, we managed to jag the annual Christmas Carols and it was great. Perhaps 10,000 people? Admittedly, about 2 hours walk (only a slight exaggeration) from the entrance of the Gardens to the Bowl, but the food trucks had a good variety of options and the gold coin donation was to a local charity. The show was well presented and professional and include hits like Golden (from KPop Demon Hunters) and Wicked (although I'm not entirely convinced about the Christmas relevance of either of these) but the best Christmas carol of all - Snoopy's Christmas (if you haven't ever heard it, head straight to spotify and download it now!! All the locals seemed to know it as well). There are art galleries, museums, and quirky places to eat. Probably not a weeks worth, but certainly a pretty satisfying few days worth.

Peachy is wonderful, has everything you could need, an excellent place to stay. Everything is thought of, Therese is a wonderful hostess, make sure you book more than one night as you will be glad you did.

one night as a stopover between Waikanae and Hamilton to break the drive up is really great. only thing we missed was the museum as we didn't stay long enough. apparently that is really quite something. next time?

We visited on a recommendation from friends that the beach camp would be perfect to celebrate our granddaughters 5th birthday and it was! We enjoyed the beach across the road, with lifeguards. The pool and playground was well utilized with families and the amenities were perfect. We enjoyed Opunake town visiting the antique shop, cafes and the hotel.

It is a natural beach loved by surfers! Take the kickboard, go directly into the sea, and enjoy the fun of surfing. If you are tired, you can rest on the beach. The sunset is beautiful and not to be missed. But there is no lighting after sunset so be careful walking back to where you parked

This is a place for a get-away to refresh yourself. The boutique accomodation is comfortable and clean. The restaurant at the hotel is special with amazing food, and a great atmosphere. The wifi didnt reach our room but who cares?! we came for a break 💕 Sunshine and great walks nearby made it a great escape from life. And bonus (although I didnt use it this time) this place is pet friendly so you can stay with your dog!

Super Market and small businesses appreciated. Convenience of travelling North and South of Waitara to Taranaki historical sites suited our family. Close to the sea a bonus. Managed a little fishing. Play Park great for children.

A little village right on the coastline. South, West coast of the North Island NZ. Wild beaches, very friendly people, talked to the local fishermen. Great place for families to explore or couples for a little romance.

Really enjoyed New Plymouth. Especially enjoyed Back Beach and the cafe The Bach. We had great weather and enjoyed the views of Mt Taranaki. Can recommend driving north about an hour to see Elephant Rock and Rapanui Beach - just be sure to go an hour before low tide.

It was very poor accommodation. Not clean before we got there room was very smelly n musky dirty smell. Lots missing from room. Utensils, TV remote, pots, toaster, iron. We couldn’t book anywhere else all booked out a big festival was on in the area. Emergency housing was in the Lodge they were disgustingly dirty (bogens) Dogs inside their hotel room. Their rooms were disgustingly yuk. Not a good experience I would not recommend anyone to stay there. Very poor. Bad Experience.