Pukekura Park

Meander up to Pukekura Park from the centre of New Plymouth and soak up the serenity and calmness. Although very much a city park, the bountiful flora and fauna, native forest, formal gardens and interesting architectural additions, make the park feel a million miles from the hustle and bustle of the main street. 

Walk through Saunders Gate, an impressive art deco arch built in 1938, and find yourself greeted with a pristine cricket oval complete with seating reminiscent of mountains. A subtle reminder that on a clear day Pukekura Park commands incredible views of the maunga. According to locals, a visit at sunset can reap big rewards as the clouds often part and give way to views of the region’s conical icon, Mount Taranaki/Taranaki Maunga.   

Amongst the extensive greenery - 128 hectares to be precise - a network of lakes weaves its way through the centre of the park, and a good selection of walking tracks should keep you busy. Pukekura Park's Fernery is definitely worth a look too. The fernery consists of three glass-topped caverns excavated into a hillside allowing the park to showcase indoor and outdoor plants from around the world (you can even get married here!). On top of that, there are plenty of eye-catching features to seek out, including the striking Poet’s Bridge, Kunming Spring Pavilion and Band Rotunda. If you’ve got littlies in tow, a children’s garden playground will keep the smaller family members amused. 

Affectionately known as the jewel in New Plymouth's crown, it certainly shines brightly.