New Plymouth Walking Tracks

New Plymouth’s Great Walking Tracks: An Overview

This guide dives deeply into the most captivating walking tracks in New Plymouth, giving you a comprehensive overview of their features, challenges, and highlights.

The Coastal Walkway: A Masterpiece of Connection

The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is not just a walking track; it’s a journey through the heart of the city’s relationship with the sea. Stretching 13.2 kilometres along the coastline, this award-winning pathway connects the community with some of the area’s most iconic landmarks.

What You’ll Experience

• Dynamic Views: As you move along the track, the landscape transitions from rugged cliffs and black sand beaches to urban parks and cultural landmarks.
• Te Rewa Rewa Bridge: This architectural wonder frames Mount Taranaki perfectly on clear days. Designed to resemble a whale’s ribcage, it symbolises the deep connection between the land and sea.
• Wind Wand Sculpture: Created by Len Lye, this 45-metre kinetic sculpture is a striking symbol of New Plymouth’s artistic heritage.
• Beach Life: The walkway provides direct access to Fitzroy, East End, and Ngāmotu Beaches, each offering unique opportunities for swimming, surfing, or picnicking.

Perfect for Everyone

Whether you’re an avid runner, a leisurely walker, or someone simply out for a scenic cycle, the Coastal Walkway caters to all. The flat, paved surface ensures accessibility for wheelchairs and prams.

• Duration: 2.5–3 hours (one way), but shorter sections can be enjoyed in under an hour.
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset walks are magical, with golden light illuminating the sea and coastline.

Paritutu Rock: Climbing a Natural Sentinel

Paritutu Rock offers a short but exhilarating challenge. This steep volcanic remnant rises sharply from the coastal landscape, providing one of the most rewarding views in New Plymouth.

The Journey Up

The climb begins with steps carved into the rock, transitioning to a rugged section with chains for support. While the ascent is less than 700 metres, it’s intense and requires good balance and a moderate level of fitness.

• Historical Significance: For the Māori, Paritutu Rock holds spiritual importance as a place of connection to ancestors and the land. Respect for its cultural value adds depth to the experience.
• Breathtaking Views: The summit provides 360-degree views of the Tasman Sea, Sugar Loaf Islands, and the city. On clear days, Mount Taranaki’s snow-capped peak dominates the inland horizon.

Practical Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
• Avoid climbing during wet or windy conditions as the path can become slippery.
• Take your time; while the climb is short, it’s steep and demanding.

Te Henui Walkway: A Riverside Haven

The Te Henui Walkway offers a serene escape, following the Te Henui Stream from its mouth at the Tasman Sea inland through lush greenery and residential suburbs. Spanning 7 kilometres, this walkway is perfect for casual strolls and peaceful moments in nature.

What Makes It Unique

• Historic Highlights: The walkway passes through the Te Henui Cemetery, established in 1861. This historical site features intricate gravestones and offers a quiet space for reflection.
• Flourishing Ecosystem: The track is lined with native plants like kawakawa and mānuka, creating habitats for birdlife, including tūī, kererū, and fantails.
• Community Spaces: Picnic areas, benches, and playgrounds make it a family-friendly destination.

Track Insights

• Length: 7 kilometres (loop).
• Time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours.
• Best Features: Shaded pathways and the gentle sound of the stream create a calming atmosphere ideal for mindfulness walks.

Lake Mangamahoe Loop Track: Reflections of Taranaki

Surrounded by forest and tranquil waters, the Lake Mangamahoe Loop Track is a must for nature lovers. This reservoir is not only an essential water supply for the city but also a scenic haven for outdoor activities.

A Walk Through Beauty

• Mirror Magic: On clear days, Mount Taranaki’s reflection in the lake is mesmerising, creating endless photo opportunities.
• Forest Tranquillity: The track meanders through a production forest where exotic trees and native plants coalesce, offering shade and coolness even on warmer days.
• Wildlife Watching: Ducks, swans, and other waterfowl frequent the lake, while the surrounding forest teems with birdsong.

Know Before You Go

• Length: 3 kilometres (loop).
• Duration: 1 hour.
• Terrain: Undulating paths that are well-marked but can be uneven in parts.
• Other Activities: Mountain biking trails run parallel to parts of the track, so be mindful of shared spaces.

Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve: A Walk Through History and Nature

The Ratapihipihi Scenic Reserve Walk is an enchanting 1.2-kilometre loop through native bush, perfect for those who appreciate a short yet immersive experience.

What to Expect

• Old Logging Sites: Historic saw pits along the trail hint at the area’s past as a centre for logging, now reclaimed by nature.
• Lush Canopy: Towering rimu, kahikatea, and ferns create a vibrant, green cathedral overhead.
• Quiet Waterfalls: A gentle stream and small waterfalls enhance the tranquillity of the reserve.

Perfect for Short Walks

This trail is ideal for families with young children or those short on time but keen to connect with nature.

• Duration: 30–45 minutes.
• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings offer the chance to hear the dawn chorus of birds.

Huatoki Walkway: Urban Green Serenity

The Huatoki Walkway connects New Plymouth’s city centre to the suburbs, following the Huatoki Stream through a mix of urban parks and natural bush.

Urban-Nature Blend

• Public Art: Sculptures and murals along the trail add cultural interest, reflecting New Plymouth’s vibrant arts scene.
• Streamside Calm: Wooden boardwalks and bridges enhance the experience of walking alongside the gentle stream.
• Secluded Feel: Despite its urban location, the trail feels private and peaceful, offering a quick escape into nature.

Ideal for Exploration

• Length: Approximately 5 kilometres.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-afternoon light brings out the rich greens of the surrounding bush.

Pouakai Tarns Walk: Beyond New Plymouth

While technically outside New Plymouth, the Pouakai Tarns Walk is worth mentioning for its iconic reflection of Mount Taranaki in the still waters of the tarns.

An Alpine Experience

• Track Features: The trail takes you through wetlands, subalpine landscapes, and boardwalks, all culminating in one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots.

• Challenge: While shorter than the full Pouakai Circuit, this section requires a reasonable level of fitness due to steep climbs.

• Distance: 4.5 kilometres (one way).

• Time: 3 hours (return).

Tips for Enjoying New Plymouth’s Walking Tracks

1. Be Weather-Wise: Coastal and mountainous weather can change rapidly; pack layers and check forecasts.
2. Start Early: Popular tracks like the Coastal Walkway and Paritutu Rock can get busy. An early start ensures a quieter experience.
3. Stay Hydrated: Bring water and snacks, especially for longer walks like Lake Mangamahoe.
4. Respect the Environment: Stick to marked trails, and leave no trace behind.

Conclusion

New Plymouth’s walking tracks are more than just paths—they are immersive experiences that connect you to the region’s unique landscapes, rich history, and vibrant community. From the iconic Coastal Walkway to the tranquil beauty of Lake Mangamahoe, each trail offers something special. Whether you’re after a challenging climb or a gentle stroll, the city’s walking tracks provide endless opportunities to explore and appreciate the great outdoors.

Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and discover why New Plymouth’s walking tracks are among the best in New Zealand!