New Plymouth is a small seaside city on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s known for its coastal walkway stretching from Bell Block to Port Taranaki, parks and galleries.

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge has views of towering Mount Taranaki. This is an area rich in lush green countryside, wild black sand beaches, and most of all, the iconic Mount Taranaki. This perfectly conical volcano resembles Mt Fuji (even standing in for it in the film ‘The Last Samurai”) to dominate the lush green landscape.

The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery shows contemporary exhibitions. Close by, Pukekura Park has botanical gardens and birdlife. In the rhododendron season, New Plymouth’s parks and gardens are beautiful to behold.