Why Taranaki? There's Something for Everyone
With epic mountain trails, miles of coastline and surf, vibrant urban centres, a multitude of gardens and parks, and a major events calendar there’s something for everyone.
It’s easy to achieve an enviable lifestyle, without having to compromise your career, interests or your daily coffee fix.
Add to that the minimal traffic, and clean air and water, and you'll soon see why this safe and stimulating community is the perfect place to call home-whether you're seeking a better lifestyle, starting a family, or simply looking for a change.
And what’s more, the workforce in Taranaki has long enjoyed competitive wages and some of the highest rates of GDP in New Zealand. Couple that with the opportunity to buy a property that big city residents can only dream about, and vast range of free activities and you not only have time to enjoy a great work-life balance you may even be able to afford to take up some new hobbies.
But don’t just take our word for it, check out the stories of those people who have already made the move and hear what they have to say below.
Whatever brought you to Taranaki, the region will impress you, inspire you and get under your skin.
New Plymouth
New Plymouth district spreads from Mōkau in the north to Ōkato in the south and includes the city of New Plymouth, the towns of Waitara, Inglewood, Urenui, Ōkato, and Ōakura, and many other smaller rural communities.
The district is known for its rugged coastline, world class surfing spots, fertile farming land, and major events.
Whether it is enjoying a coffee in one of the many cafes dotted through the district’s towns, swimming at one of the black-sand beaches, wandering along the 13km Coastal Walkway, browsing through the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre, or taking part in a wide range of adventure activities or sports there’s something for everyone.
See A guide for New Settlers for information about settling into New Plymouth.
Stratford
Lying at the heart of Taranaki beneath the eastern slopes of Taranaki Maunga, Shakespearean-themed Stratford is known for its strong farming history and family-friendly community living.
Stratford is a gateway to both the maunga and the Forgotten World Highway - a 150km long driving or cycling journey that explores the ever-changing landscape between Stratford and Taumarunui. The region offers plenty of other attractions too, including Taranaki Pioneer Village, TET King's Theatre (the first movie theatre in the Southern Hemisphere to show 'talkies'), Percy Thomson Art Gallery, a bike park and an indoor swimming pool, not to mention various easy walks to heritage spots and along bush-clad rivers and streams.
Find out more about living in Stratford on the Stratford District Council website.
South Taranaki
South Taranaki is a district of many surprises as the base for Fonterra in the region, the district supports many innovative industries that support the food and fibre sector. The district is known for its safe, caring communities, first class facilities and exciting range of outdoor activities. Within the district you’ll find the towns of Hāwera, Manaia, Kaponga, Ōpunake, Pātea , Eltham, and Waverley.
South Taranaki has a rich and dynamic history as well as a very active arts community. Visitors and locals alike enjoy visiting local must dos such as the kiwi sanctuary Rotokare Scenic Reserve, Ōpunake's surf beach, climbing Hāwera's historic water tower or learning more about the country’s history at Tawhiti Museum and Aotea Utanganui - Museum of South Taranaki.
With all the mod cons of the city, without the hustle and bustle, South Taranaki has it all. Its stunning natural environment, rugged coastline and urban offerings mean you can be on the maunga in the morning, the beach in the afternoon and dining out in a top-class cafe or restaurant in the evening.
Find out more about living in South Taranaki on the South Taranaki District Council Website.
Read how others have made Taranaki home
Live local, work remote.
Discover how Alex and Min have upgraded to the Taranaki lifestyle without giving up their jobs.
Ash came to NZ as an international student. See how she made Taranaki her home.
Lifestyle Story
Go No Further
A transforming region where you career, family and lifestyle can flourish.
Experience our famous maunga to moana lifestyle, and live life your way - take a look at our Live and Work Story