Pukekura Park, New PlymouthSource: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pukekura20101002.jpg
Author: Pakaraki
New Plymouth is a city in the Taranaki Region, on the west coast of North Island, New Zealand. The city is part of a territory covering 2,324.26 sq km (897.4 sq mi). It has a population of some 70,000 people (2011 estimate). The city is the economic center for the Taranaki Region.
New Plymouth was name after the city of Plymouth in England.It got its name probably because the company set up to deal with settlement intended to attract emigrants from Plymouth and the West Country of England.
The Town Board of New Plymouth was formed in 1863. Over time, it expanded and absorbed neighboring towns. In 1911 New Plymouth borough merged with Fitzroy Town District. In 1949, New Plymouth was granted city status.
Today New Plymouth is a major events center in New Zealand. Many festivals as well as sports events are held here. Among the festivals held here include the TSB Bank Festival of Lights, the Taranaki Rhododendron and Garden Festival and the G-TARanaki Guitar Festival.
New Plymouth experiences a moist, temperate climate. January is the warmest month, with average high temperature of 21.8°C (71.2°F). Coldest month is July, when the average low temperature drops to 5.6°C (42.1°F). June is the wettest month of the year, regularly receiving 145 mm (5.71 in) of rainfall.
Visiting New Plymouth
New Plymouth Airport (NPL) receives regular flights from Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. There are bus services linking New Plymouth with most cities and towns of the North Island.
Puke Ariki Museum and Library, New PlymouthSource: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:PukeAriki20090727.jpg
Author: Pakaraki
Sights & Attractions to visit in New Plymouth
- Brooklands Park
English-style park next to Pukekura Park, Brooklands Park includes formal gardens and manicured lawns. It was originally a private garden which was bequeathed to the city in 1934.
- Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Contemporary art museum which opened in 1970 as a gift from a local benefactor. It holds an important collection of abstract art from the 1970s to 90s.
- Puke Ariki
Museum and library complex occupying what was once an important Maori site. Today it holds an important collection of Maori artifacts, including some 6,000 nationally important Maori treasures.
- Pukeariki Landing
Public park along the coast, at the site where supply boats used to come ashore.
- Pukekura Park
A stone's throw from the city center, this public park opened in 1876 is an oasis for showcasing native plants. It makes generous use of water in its ponds, lake and fountains.
- Richmond Cottage
Historic private residence built of stone in 1853, today well restored and open to visitors.
- St Mary's Church
This is the oldest church built of stone still standing in New Zealand. Consecrated in 1848, it provides a glimpse into the 19th century architectural style and the tenacity of the pioneers in an often hostile land.
Copyright ©
2003-2025 Timothy Tye. All Rights Reserved.
Go Back