New Plymouth has it all: wild and spectacular coastline, the sensational Mount Taranaki, magical glow worm dells, epic waterfalls and hiking trails, as well as a great cafe and bar scene. It’s one of the North Island’s must see destinations. We’re sharing all the best things to do in and around New Plymouth to help you plan the perfect trip.

Pouakai Tarns offers the most magical view of Mount Taranaki, but it’s definitely something you have to plan as it is not always visible. We’re sharing exact conditions required for both wind speed and cloud cover, as well as full details on the trail to get there to make sure you have the perfect trip.

Wilkies Pools are an incredible series of plunge pools, one of which also has a magical view of Mount Taranaki. To enter the majority of pools requires a bit of a scramble. We’re sharing everything you need to know about accessing the pools, as well as details on the Wilkies Pools loop track.

New Plymouth might just have the most accessible city population of glow worms in New Zealand - you’ll find a great colony within minutes of the town centre! We’re sharing where to find them as well as another great spot at a cave just outside the city.

Lake Mangamahoe offers some of the best views on the whole North Island. Mount Taranaki sits behind the gorgeous clear lake and even creates a reflection in the water on a calm day. We’re sharing the very best viewpoints, the conditions you need in order to see the mountain and details on the full lake circuit track.

Paritutu Rock offers one of the best views in New Plymouth, especially if you head up for sunset. It’s a very short walk but does involve a fairly length scramble with the aid of a fixed chain. We’re sharing what the scramble is like plus everything else you need to know about the walk.