North Island · Explorer’s field notes
How to New Plymouth
Beneath the perfect cone of Taranaki Maunga — a coastal walkway, a world-class gallery and gardens of rhododendrons.
New Plymouth videos from the Hôtel du Van founders are coming soon to the Stay Scene channel.
AVOID · New Plymouth
What to avoid in New Plymouth
- Driving up to the mountain's North Egmont road in poor visibility.
- The Pouakai car park on fine summer weekends — go early.
- Parking the van on the narrow streets near Pukekura during Festival of Lights.
The top ten
Where to go, eat & take coffee
Places to explore, eat and stock up along the way.
- 1See & do
Govett-Brewster / Len Lye Centre
A shimmering stainless-steel gallery devoted to kinetic artist Len Lye.
42 Queen Street, New Plymouth 4310 
2See & doCoastal Walkway & Te Rewa Rewa Bridge
A 13 km seaside path; the bridge frames the mountain.
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, Bell Block, New Plymouth 4373
3See & do
4See & doEgmont National Park
Walk into goblin forest on the flanks of Taranaki Maunga.
2879 Egmont Road, Egmont Village 4372
5See & do
6See & do
7Eat
8EatMonica's Eatery
Stylish café-restaurant inside the gallery.
Govett-Brewster, 42 Queen Street, New Plymouth 4310
9Coffee
10Coffee
Do not make these mistakes!
1. Climbing Taranaki without experience
It's one of the deadliest mountains in NZ. Stick to marked tracks and check conditions at the visitor centre.
2. Visiting Pouakai in cloud
No reflection, no view. Check the mountain forecast first.
3. Missing the Len Lye water whirler
The riverside kinetic sculpture runs on a timetable — check times.
Continue the voyage
Photos are AI-generated illustrations. Opening hours and rules change — check before you go.