New Plymouth, New Zealand is a tourist destination for travellers looking for something a little off the beaten path. If you're tired of the same old tourist spots and need something with a bit of edge, you've found it in New Plymouth.
Sure, New Plymouth is beautiful. New Plymouth surfing is world-class and the natural beauty is nothing short of epic. But it's everything else about New Plymouth that makes it so special. Art galleries, rock climbing, and dance festivals are just a few items that might strike your fancy while in town. Odd landmarks designed by unique artists and glorious botanical gardens give New Plymouth its unique charm. New Plymouth is one tourist town that marches to the beat of its own drum.
Getting in and around New Plymouth
New Plymouth Airport
Getting into New Plymouth is very convenient thanks to the New Plymouth Airport. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city centre and taxi service into the city is quite affordable. It's also possible to take a bus to New Plymouth. Bus routes to New Plymouth run twice daily from Auckland and Wellington.
New Plymouth Transport
For getting around New Plymouth, walking is recommended, even encouraged. Many of the main attractions can be arrived at on foot and the locals choose walking in an effort to preserve the local environment.
New Plymouth Car Hire
If you wish to travel beyond walking distance, Nelson car hire is available through numerous carriers at the New Plymouth Airport. Avis, Hertz, and Thrifty are just a few car hire companies in operation in New Plymouth.
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New Plymouth accommodation
New Plymouth accommodation is diverse and varying. Travellers will be glad to know that they will have no problem finding a hotel that's within their budget and to their liking. While there are several chain hotels operating in New Plymouth, there are also numerous boutique and privately owned hotels as well for a more unique experience.
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| Mid-range |
- The Quality Hotel Plymouth International is more accurately described as luxurious rather than quality as every detail is attended to at this New Plymouth hotel.
- The Devon Hotel knows how to do executive comfort. This sleek, stylish hotel offers rooms and suites to optimize the comfort of your stay.
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| Budget |
- The Timandra Motel demonstrates that budget rates don't necessarily mean sub-standard accommodation. Guests enjoy a tremendous value at this centrally located New Plymouth accommodation.
- The Flamingo Motel is an easy walking distance from the centre of the city, yet takes convenience to a new level by offering an extensive list of amenities and guest services.
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| Backpackers |
- Shoestring Backpackers. You can even have help arranging some activities at the comfortable, convenient hostel in New Plymouth.
- Seaspray House Backpackers. Enjoy the cosy charm of a historic home at this whimsical hostel with all the amenities that you love.
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Things to do in New Plymouth
New Plymouth is hardly your average tourist town. From kinetic art to spectacular botanical gardens, you're bound to experience a few firsts during your trip to New Plymouth.
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is a very important centre for the arts in New Zealand. It's one of the most significant galleries for modern art and visitors love the film archive and works by Len Lye.
Egmont National Park. Egmont National Park is one of the most accessible parks in New Zealand. Travellers love it for its year round appeal, with hiking available in the summer months and world class skiing in the winter months.
Heritage Walkway. The Heritage Walkway is a popular self-guided tour that takes you by some of New Plymouth's most incredible historic buildings, as well as St. Mary's Church on Vivian Street, which is the oldest stone church in the country.
New Plymouth Surfing. New Plymouth beaches are famous for great surf and attract wind surfers and surfers from all over New Zealand. East End, Back Beach, and Fitzroy are the best beaches for surfing.
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Day trips in and around New Plymouth
New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is over 7 kilometres long and a great spot to get some exercise or enjoy the views of the coast and the beautiful city of New Plymouth.
Lake Mangamahoe. Lake Mangamahoe is also a wildlife reserve. Visitors to the area love this spot for romantic or family picnics and enjoy the wilderness and beautiful reflections of Mount Taranaki.
Pukeiti. Located just 20 kilometres outside of New Plymouth, Pukeiti is a breathtakingly gorgeous rhododendron and azalea garden that is so colourful during the spring months you won't be able to believe your eyes.
New Plymouth Wineries. New Plymouth is an important area for the wine industry and many of the local wineries offer free sampling and other activities. You can even design your own wine tour.
Sugar Loaf Islands Conservation Area. This group of volcanic islands promises tons of fun from wildlife watching to water sports. Enjoy surfing, diving, hiking, and bird watching.
Pukekura Park. Pukekura Park is nothing short of a celebration of New Plymouth's natural beauty. Ponds, waterfalls, streams, ferns, and plants make this park truly amazing. It's also the site of the Brooklands Zoo, a fun activity for the kids.
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