Taranaki is a region on the western coast of New Zealand's North Island, dominated by its volcano — Mount Taranaki (formerly Mount Egmont), a near-perfect cone that rises 2,518 metres from a ring of rainforest and dairy farmland. On a clear day it is one of the most beautiful sights in the country.
The Egmont National Park encircles the mountain and offers excellent tramping, from short walks through goblin forest to the demanding summit climb (best attempted in summer with proper gear). The Pouakai Crossing is a superb day walk with views of the mountain reflected in the alpine tarns.
New Plymouth, the regional capital, sits on the coast to the north. It is a pleasant, art-minded city with the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery (home to the Len Lye Centre), a coastal walkway, and good surf beaches. The region is also known for its gardens — the annual Taranaki Garden Festival draws visitors from across the country.
The Forgotten World Highway (SH43), running east from Stratford through the backcountry to Taumarunui, is one of New Zealand's great drives: lonely, beautiful, and barely touched.