New Plymouth
If it's your first time in New Plymouth, some things might be new to you, like the public transport system and finding your way around the city. This can be exciting but don't worry if you feel a little homesick. That's natural, especially in the first 12 months of living overseas.
One of the best things you can do to feel at home is to explore and experience your city. Then the things that are new become normal as you create a great life here.
Been in New Plymouth for a while? Scroll down and see if you've visited all the places and landmarks listed below!
Quick facts
Population
New Plymouth has a population of around 80,679 people.(external link that opens in a new tab)
Fun Fact
New Plymouth is the major city in the Taranaki region.
Living in New Plymouth
There are many ways to describe life in New Plymouth. Here are two important ones:
Nature's playground
New Plymouth is near one of the most photographed mountains in the North Island – Mt Taranaki. See the 2,518m high peak emerging from the clouds as you approach it from the road. You can hike the mountain, but be prepared for changeable weather – conditions can change quickly and create dangerous situations.
Check the weather forecast before you leave and the Department of Conservation website(external link that opens in a new tab) for any important updates, and make sure you go with an organised group, for example as part of a guided tour or local hiking group.
Tip: But it's not all about Mt Taranaki! New Plymouth has many outdoor activities you can enjoy. There are short walks, hiking and cycle trails(external link that opens in a new tab), beaches(external link that opens in a new tab) and parks(external link that opens in a new tab) nearby. It doesn't matter what your fitness level is, there's something for everyone.
Great for art festivals and music
With warm summers and a stunning landscape, New Plymouth does feel a little bit like a holiday destination but it has heart too. It's famous for its arts scene and is home to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre. Len Lye was an internationally famous New Zealand filmmaker and artist who experimented with moving images and sculptures – you can see some of his films at the on-site movie theatre.
Also, look out for some of New Plymouth's most popular festivals:
WOMAD – World of Music, Arts and Dance(external link that opens in a new tab): Featuring musicians, singers and bands from all over the world, this festival sells out quickly and is held at one of the most magical parks in New Zealand – the TSB Bowl of Brooklands and Brooklands Park. WOMAD happens each year in March and if you go, you're sure to make a new friend or discover music you've never heard before. On a budget? You can try volunteering at the festival.(external link that opens in a new tab)
New Zealand Tattoo and Art Festival(external link that opens in a new tab): With one in three Kiwis under 30 having a tattoo, the art form has long been popular in New Zealand and many styles and methods of tattooing hold significant cultural meaning(external link that opens in a new tab). See over 300 of the world's best tattoo artists in one place while you're in New Plymouth.
Get useful information and important updates to make your life easier while you're living and studying in New Zealand.
Useful New Plymouth websites
Here are a few suggestions to help you have a great experience and a safe time in New Plymouth.
Studying in New Plymouth(external link that opens in a new tab): Find information on study, activities and support for students in New Plymouth.
Taranaki, New Zealand(external link that opens in a new tab): Find events, festivals, day walks and great places to eat in New Plymouth and the surrounding Taranaki region.
New Plymouth City Council(external link that opens in a new tab): Find out how local government works and important information to help you with daily life in New Plymouth. For example information on local parks, museums, libraries, recycling and the location of public toilets and other facilities. You can also follow them on Facebook(external link that opens in a new tab).
Buses and transport in Taranaki (New Plymouth)(external link that opens in a new tab): Learn how to get around your new home and its surrounding suburbs on public transport. Check out how to save money with a Bee Card(external link that opens in a new tab) – although if you're studying at a polytechnic, you can travel free on urban buses, just show your current student ID to the bus driver.
Puke Ariki Museum(external link that opens in a new tab): Experience history and the future in action! Discover the stories of our indigenous peoples and early settlers with a focus on New Plymouth and the Taranaki region. There's also a community library at the same location!
Self-guided art walk(external link that opens in a new tab): Discover local artists working in their studios along the Oakura Arts Trail(external link that opens in a new tab). Available all year round, these studios can be easily found around the city. You'll see artists working with glass, clay, paper and pencil, paint, metal and more.
Taranaki Base Hospital(external link that opens in a new tab): This regional hospital is located in New Plymouth. If there's a medical emergency and you or someone else's life is in danger, go to Taranaki Base Hospital or phone 111 (this emergency number gives you access to police, fire and ambulance services). If it's not urgent, make a doctor's appointment or visit an after hours clinic like Phoenix Urgent Doctors(external link that opens in a new tab) or MediCross Urgent Care & GP Clinic(external link that opens in a new tab). 'After hours' means that the medical clinic is open outside of normal working hours (8:30am to 5:30pm).
Civil Defence – Emergency Management Taranaki (New Plymouth)(external link that opens in a new tab): New Zealand is a very safe place, but like anywhere in the world there is a chance a natural disaster could happen. This could be something like a flood, tsunami or earthquake. Civil Defence have information on how to prepare for a natural disaster and you can follow them on Facebook(external link that opens in a new tab) to keep up to date on what's happening.
Trade Me - Rooms in New Plymouth and Taranaki(external link that opens in a new tab): If you're not staying in a homestay, you might need to find a room to rent. You can try Trade Me to find a place to live. Make sure to check how far your new home is from important places, like your place of study or job (if you're working part time).
Chaos cafe(external link that opens in a new tab): Find vegan, vegetarian and gluten free food in New Plymouth.
Farmers' market Taranaki(external link that opens in a new tab): Go to the local farmers' market on Sunday morning and buy something delicious for breakfast or some cheap fruit and vegetables. You can find it at Currie St, in New Plymouth's CBD (central business district).
Climb Paritutu Rock(external link that opens in a new tab): This rock is part of a very old volcano – even older than Mt Taranaki! Translated from Māori to English, it's name means 'pari' (cliff, high) and 'tutu' (standing tall). Paritutu Rock looks out over Port Taranaki, it's a great way to experience a 360° view of New Plymouth and the islands off the coast. If you're climbing the rock, make sure to wear good shoes and that you have your hands free – put your phone or camera in a backpack or safely in your pocket, because you'll need to hold a rope for part of the climb - it's very steep!
Watch a local rugby match(external link that opens in a new tab): Learn about the most popular sport in the country - rugby, and support the local team at the same time!