Western North Island

Taranaki
Probably the least visited region of the North Island, Taranaki’s unspoilt beauty - vast areas of bush backed by mountains and fringed by an attractive coastline offers a real sense of discovery to those who do visit. Explore the Goblin Forest in the wilds of Egmont National Park, kayak along the river or climb the distinctive peak of Mt Taranaki. This is also a popular skiing venue during

New Plymouth
New Plymouth is the main centre of the region and offers a pleasant choice of eateries. It is renowned for surfing and windsurfing opportunities, and is also home to some fine parks, boasting a delightful array of flowering plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas and roses. Taranaki’s climate is ideal for these plants to prosper and as such, the region is becoming a real draw for gardening enthusiasts.

Palmerston North
The pleasant university town of Palmerston North is home to the All Blacks training ground and the New Zealand Rugby Museum, housing all sorts of memorabilia relating to the history of the game.

River Region
Dominated by the Whanganui River, this region stretching across the lower portion of the North Island also includes Manawatu and Rangitikei Rivers. The former is one of the most historically significant, once being the only link to the region and now the only access to the heart of Whanganui National Park. The river is host to a number of activities including jet-boating, rafting and kayaking. Those looking for something a little more relaxed can indulge in trout fishing, horse-trekking as well as health and beauty treatments.