New Zealand > North Island > Taranaki and River Region > Taranaki

Waitara and North Taranaki

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Waitara, North Taranaki’s largest town, is full of Maori history. It was one of the first areas to be settled by the Maori and is rich with heritage sites and pas that are filled with stunning carvings. The Waitara River flows through the town down to the beach. The area is well known for its superb apples and an abundance of roadside fruit and vegetable stalls.

Just a 20-minute drive north of Waitara is the beach village of Urenui. In summer this is a popular holiday destination with country fares and markets. A holiday park with a golf course and other activities right on the beach buzzes with families and holidaymakers. Further north another 20 minutes away is Wai-iti Beach and Uriti. Many scenes from the Tom Cruise film The Last Samurai were shot in Uriti and you can tour the village site.

Wai-iti Beach and Tongaporutu Whitecliffs Station offer some stunning scenery. Miles of black sandy beaches stretch along the coast with superb views of Mt Taranaki and the towering white cliffs that line the coast. The area is rich in sea life, with dolphins and orca whales passing by, abundant shellfish, mussel rocks and penguins. The tides here can be very big and spectacular, on king tide there is little walking to be done but when the tide goes out the vast stretches of flat sand are laden with small pools of water - great for the kids to paddle in.

Stunning scenery abounds in this area and even if you don't venture too far, it's great for a drive along the coast, which is dotted with little craft shops and cafes. Off the beaten track, this region is a relaxing holiday spot with wild beaches, great fishing spots and pretty towns.

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Accommodation

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Activities

Practical Education Institute
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Dining

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