After a 2.5 hour drive from Waitomo, we arrived at New Plymouth in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. We were really excited to visit New Plymouth to catch majestic views of Mt Taranaki (aka Mount Egmont). We were blessed with clear blue skies during our time there so we got to see Mount Taranaki from almost everywhere in the city!
First up though we visited Pukekura Park. Pukekura Park is famous for its tranquil gardens, red Poet’s Bridge and the cricket grounds is where a scene from The Last Samurai movie (the one that has Tom Cruise in it) was filmed. Mt Taranaki bears a strong resemblance to Mt Fuji in Japan so it was also used as a ‘stand in’ for Mt Fuji for parts of the movie too. On a very fine day you can see the tip of Mt Taranaki when looking out towards the iconic red Poet’s Bridge.
We then headed over to our Airbnb accommodation where we were greeted by 2 super cute fluffy and friendly brother cats – Archie and Elvis. Bridgette’s self contained studio was very spacious, clean, comfy and homely.
Bridgette’s Airbnb
NB: wifi wasn’t available inside the studio as the booster was down during our stay (the listing said wifi wasn’t included) but you can access the main house’s wifi from Bridgette’s driveway if you need which she kindly allows. So if wifi is a must for you, it’s best to double check this with Bridgette before booking if it’s available again yet.
After a good night’s sleep, the next morning we got up bright and early to go climb Paritutu Rock. It’s a short roughly 15 minutes climb but it is fairly steep and can be a little challenging especially towards the top where you need to climb rocks and hold onto a chain for safety. For those scared of heights this might be a bit daunting as you also have to go down the same way you go up. The panoramic views from the top of Paritutu Rock are well worth it though with the city, port, seaviews and Mt Taranaki all laid out in front of you.
After all the “rock climbing” fun we were pretty hungry! Peter found us an Asian restaurant called Koby’s Kitchen. It was a great and satisfying meal that helped us refuel to continue the rest of our day! Friendly staff too and a very chill, casual atmosphere which we very much enjoyed.
Koby’s Kitchen
Address: 221 Devon Street East, New Plymouth 4312
Hours: Sunday Closed
Mon–Sat 10am–8pm
We next made a quick stop off at Te Rewa Rewa Bridge to check out this popular landmark in New Plymouth. Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a cool point of interest on New Plymouth’s coastal walkway but we didn’t stay very long as we were keen to head over to our last spot to spend the remainder of our day – Lake Mangamahoe.
Lake Mangamahoe was picture perfect! A stunningly beautiful lake with birdlife and lush forestry surrounding it but best of all another majestic view of Mount Taranaki. On a beautiful clear day like we had, it was a sight to behold!
In our next vlog, we get even closer to Mount Egmont / Taranaki so be sure to watch our final Taranaki vlog especially if you’re traveling to New Plymouth and looking for things to do and must-visit attractions.
Watch the other parts of this NZ road trip:
NZ Travel Vlog 1 of 3
NZ Travel Vlog 3 of 3
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VLOG DATE: 4th & 5th Oct 2020
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