The mountains meet the sea in Hawera, a lively town set on the Cook Strait and surrounded by emerald-green dairy pastures. Walk along beaches fringed by shimmering black sand and hike among dramatic volcanic peaks. Learn about the town’s whaling past at one of the best private museums in New Zealand.
Things to do in Hawera
Climb more than 200 steps up the landmark Hawera Water Tower. The 55-metre-tall tower is a local landmark and commands sweeping views over the Taranaki countryside. On clear days, you can see Mt Taranaki rising in the distance.
Learn about local history, culture and geology at the Tawhiti Museum. Local artist Nigel Ogle created all the exhibits from scratch, including detailed scale models and life-size dioramas. Next door is the Traders & Whalers Museum, which recreates life on the North Island in the 19th century. The subterranean canal boat ride lit with twinkling candles and lanterns is a highlight. Board the Tawhiti Bush Railway to learn more about the town’s logging heyday. Finish with coffee and homemade cakes at the charming café.
Follow the bumpy gravel road down to Waihi Beach. Rugged sea cliffs rise up from the jet-black sand. Stroll along the beach at low tide and peer into tidepools filled with tiny fish. Look closely to see ancient fossils hidden in the rock shelves.
Hawera is a gateway to the magnificent Egmont National Park. Cone-shaped Mt Taranaki towers more than 2,500 metres over the park and forms a dramatic backdrop. The hiking is incredible and ranges from scenic forest walks to challenging summit trails. Winter snowfall transforms Egmont National Park into a ski hub.
Getting around Hawera
Hawera is compact and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Hawera and explore the Taranaki region at your own pace. Hawera is on the North Island, a 3.5-hour drive from Wellington and 5.5 hours from Auckland.