Taranaki

Taranaki takes its name from its defining feature, the stratovolcano Mount Taranaki, whose cone is visible across much of the region. Māori tribes made this their home from the thirteenth century. From about 1823 contac…

Taranaki is a region of 129,000 (2023) in the North Island of New Zealand that is dominated by its volcanic mountain, (Mount) Taranaki, also known as Mount Egmont. The volcano has formed a gently sloping semi-circular …

The area became home to a number of Māori tribes from the 13th century. From about 1823 the Māori began having contact with European whalers as well as traders who arrived by schooner to buy flax. Around the 1820s and 1…

Taranaki is a region in the west of New Zealand's North Island. It is named after its main geographical feature, the stratovolcano Mount Taranaki. The main centre is the city of New Plymouth. The New Plymouth District i…

A raised bed in the courtyard, a community garden or simply swapping cuttings and seeds: gardening connects generations. People without a garden of their own are often happy to share a bed. Do you have plants, tools or …

Snow and ice are a real challenge for older or unwell neighbours. If you're clearing your own path anyway, you can often do a few metres more. Sharing a bag of grit between several houses saves effort too. Who in Tarana…

Moving for training or university is exciting, but it can feel a bit lonely at first. Sports groups, choirs, youth clubs or volunteering are great ways to meet people quickly. And sometimes just saying hi here is enough…

Sport doesn't have to mean pressure. Bouldering, skating, volleyball in the park or running with friends: the main thing is that you enjoy moving. Many clubs offer free taster sessions. What sport is popular in Taranaki…

The weekend is coming and the question is the same as always: what shall we do? Got an idea for a day trip, a concert or simply a lovely afternoon in Taranaki? Drop your tips in the comments!

A good walk clears the head and shows your home from a new angle. Which route do you love most in Taranaki, and roughly how long does it take? Share your favourite loop with us!

Lots of things in town only work because people give their time for free. Where do you volunteer in Taranaki, and where could more helping hands be useful? Tell us about it and inspire others to join in!

Recording of music written by Frederic Chopin Musopen · Public Domain

Recording of music written by Frederic Chopin Musopen · Public Domain