A hidden gem on the Western flank of New Zealand's North Island, Taranaki is often overlooked because of its remoteness, but that's the reason to visit! The region is dominated by Mt Taranaki, a dormant volcano with its near-perfect cone and the second highest mountain in the North Island. The mountain reigns supreme over Egmont National Park, a area of diverse vegetation, lush waterfalls, rainforests, and mossy swamps that has developed in an environment of frequent volcanic activity.
We make our way to Taranaki from Taupo, where our trip starts, via the Volcanic Plateau, an active volcanic and thermal area including the North Island's 3 active volcanic peaks, Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Our day offers an exploration of a section of the Mountains to Sea cycle trail by bike, to the remote Whanganui riverside settlement of Whakahoro; following a vehicle transfer in the morning from Taupo, through the volcanic tupuna (ancestors) of this area, Ruapehu, Tongariro & Ngauruhoe.
The following two days are spent on the famous The Forgotten World Highway, Aotearoa New Zealand's oldest heritage trail, giving us all things remote, mysterious and scenic. The highway follows ancient Maori trade routes and pioneering farm tracks through ambitious historic settlements, untamed native bush and stunning natural scenery. Our night on the highway is spent in one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most iconic country hotels in the charismatic town of the Republic of Whangamomona, declared as such by residents in 1989 due to their frustration with the local council!
The highway ends in the Shakespearean inspired town of Stratford, beneath the Eastern slopes of Mt Taranaki. We'll head up the mountain late afternoon to experience the stunning scenery, unique mountain flora, and bountiful birdlife.
From Stratford, our adventure continues, with a vehicle transfer to kick off cycling on quiet country roads around the base of the Maunga (mountain), all the way into of New Plymouth. Along the way, we'll pay a visit to Cape Egmont, then Pukeiti, a garden of international significance hosting one of the world's biggest and most diverse collections of rhododendrons and other exotics. New Plymouth itself is a vibrant and contemporary city, known for its art galleries, picturesque parks and spectacular, wild surf beaches.
As all the locals will tell you, our final loop ride is a memorable gem delivering a satisfying smorgasbord of riding experiences. It has it all – flats, hills, sea-edge promenade, scenic farmland, quiet roads, a tunnel and a historic bridge. We will be back in New Plymouth by late afternoon when our tour ends; please book any onwards flights from New Plymouth for departure after 5pm.